Podcasts about set lusting bruce

In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson and guest Joe K step off the Springsteen track to honor Dolly Parton following news of her death on August 25, 2026, reflecting on her six-decade career as the “Queen of Country,” her landmark songs, acting roles, business success with Dollywood, and rare talent for reimagining other artists' work. They share personal first memories of Dolly, discuss the story behind “I Will Always Love You,” and highlight her unmatched warmth, humor, talk-show brilliance, and ability to unite diverse audiences while advocating tolerance. Much of the conversation centers on her philanthropy—especially the Imagination Library and support for research tied to the Moderna COVID vaccine—urging listeners to donate and keep her legacy alive by revisiting her music, movies, and performances. https://imaginationlibrary.com/ 00:00 Porch Song Opening 01:17 Podcast Intro and Loss 02:41 Dolly Legacy Overview 03:17 Dollywood and Integrity 04:15 Songwriting and Covers 09:47 First Dolly Memories 12:55 Movies and Talk Shows 15:52 I Will Always Love You Story 19:05 Sexism and Respect 20:46 Tributes and Philanthropy 25:33 Imagination Library Call 28:36 Humor and Musicality 32:27 Acceptance and Unity 38:30 McCartney Tribute and Farewell 43:01 See Artists While You Can 45:43 Wrap Up and Closing Song Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson and guest Joe K step off the Springsteen track to honor Dolly Parton following news of her death on August 25, 2026, reflecting on her six-decade career as the “Queen of Country,” her landmark songs, acting roles, business success with Dollywood, and rare talent for reimagining other artists' work. They share personal first memories of Dolly, discuss the story behind “I Will Always Love You,” and highlight her unmatched warmth, humor, talk-show brilliance, and ability to unite diverse audiences while advocating tolerance. Much of the conversation centers on her philanthropy—especially the Imagination Library and support for research tied to the Moderna COVID vaccine—urging listeners to donate and keep her legacy alive by revisiting her music, movies, and performances. https://imaginationlibrary.com/ 00:00 Porch Song Opening 01:17 Podcast Intro and Loss 02:41 Dolly Legacy Overview 03:17 Dollywood and Integrity 04:15 Songwriting and Covers 09:47 First Dolly Memories 12:55 Movies and Talk Shows 15:52 I Will Always Love You Story 19:05 Sexism and Respect 20:46 Tributes and Philanthropy 25:33 Imagination Library Call 28:36 Humor and Musicality 32:27 Acceptance and Unity 38:30 McCartney Tribute and Farewell 43:01 See Artists While You Can 45:43 Wrap Up and Closing Song Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes writer and musician David Starkey to Set Listing Bruce to discuss Starkey's book On Track: Bruce Springsteen 1973–1987, Every Album, Every Song and his lifelong relationship to Springsteen's recorded work. Starkey shares how growing up between Sacramento and summers in Beaumont shaped his musical tastes, from Johnny Cash and Aerosmith to discovering Springsteen via Greetings and being captivated by Born to Run and Darkness on the Edge of Town. They talk about the current tour, its political tone, Tom Morello's guitar work, ticket prices, and setlist debates. Starkey explains his writing process, what he learned by re-listening (especially the importance of piano), and why 1987 marks an era's end. The conversation also touches on poetry vs. lyrics, Starkey's interview series The Creative Community, upcoming projects, and the “Mary question” from Thunder Road. https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Bruce-Springsteen-1973-1987/David-Starkey/On-Track/9781789524710 00:00 Podcast Welcome 00:39 Meeting David 02:03 Early Music Obsessions 03:44 Family Sounds and Travel 06:59 Johnny Cash Tangent 09:04 Finding Springsteen 10:03 Live Shows and Politics 13:54 Ticket Prices Debate 14:28 Writing and Poetry 18:08 Why This Bruce Book 20:05 Born in the USA Memories 22:14 Researching the Albums 23:53 Why Stop at 1987 25:43 Concert Banter Debate 26:59 River Tour Pacing 27:55 Writing More Personally 29:33 Hot Takes On Songs 30:51 Family Discovers Nebraska 32:06 Biopic Who Is It For 34:35 Bruce Creative Evolution 36:46 Never Repeating Himself 39:41 His Interview Show Origins 41:09 Next Books And Memoir 44:12 Where To Find The Book 45:54 Final Thanks And Signoff 46:24 Podcast Housekeeping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this B-side episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson talks with Joey Register, who records as itsrihhomie, about his path from growing up in Rochester, New York to making melodic rap as an emotional outlet and running his own studio to help others create. Joey describes his freestyle, bar-by-bar recording process, early influences from friends and artists like Juice WRLD and Lil Wayne, and how his album Population Mars pulled together songs written from ages 18 to 25 across sessions in places like Boston, Tampa, and Chicago. He discusses the challenges independent artists face in smaller markets, how streaming and short-form content shape careers, and his plans to release more music, collaborate locally in San Francisco, and experiment across genres. The episode closes with Joey's take on whether Mary gets in the car in “Thunder Road,” plus where to find his music and social accounts. New Album - https://music.apple.com/us/album/rih-university/6798003629 https://open.spotify.com/album/6vYZs5I63juyntRHf8oCjI?si=TRsU_9SlTSW4exS-eWl-Zg&utm_source=copy-link - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsrihhomie/ - Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/za/album/population-mars/1834633510 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/50p0UKuBYmUhp9cZ7A5JDM?si=BXKtxVW4TLmTDUib7TlaRQ 00:00 B-Side Detour Intro 01:03 Meet Joey Register 02:35 Finding Rap and Freestyle Flow 11:11 Studio Life and Community 13:10 Defining the Sound 14:42 Indie Artist in Streaming Era 17:57 Next Moves and New Genres 20:34 Surprises and Creator Culture 23:17 Where to Find the Music 24:09 Spirituality and Mindset 28:41 Thunder Road Mary Question 31:29 Socials and Farewell 32:17 Podcast Outro and Support Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this B-side episode of Set List and Bruce, Jesse welcomes back Dale Hansen for a wide-ranging conversation that begins with Hansen reflecting on long-winded interviews and leads into his love of Rod Stewart, first seeing him live at the Cowboys' 1996 Super Bowl in Phoenix, and why Stewart's persona, gravelly voice, and story-driven songs resonate with him—so much so that he's planned Rod Stewart songs for his funeral. Hansen then shares memories of late NBA coach Don Nelson, including their first meeting tied to Nelson's 1961 Iowa–Ohio State game and a darkly comic Maui poker story involving Willie Nelson. The discussion also covers Nelson's Dirk Nowitzki draft, Hansen's approach to avoiding definitive hot takes, and why he always believed Troy Aikman would thrive in broadcasting, illustrated with personal stories from an Iowa graduation visit and the “potato salad” saga. https://www.youtube.com/@DallasDialoguewithDale 00:00 Talking Too Much 02:13 B-Side Episode Intro 02:53 Rod Stewart Discovery 04:17 Funeral Playlist Plans 10:59 Don Nelson Tribute 11:34 First Meeting Story 17:11 Maui Poker Tale 24:25 Dirk Draft Debate 27:14 Trusting Coaches and Scouts 29:22 Aikman on the Mic 30:56 Iowa Graduation Surprise 36:53 Potato Salad Legend 41:13 Protecting Sources on Planes 43:22 Winning Over Stats 45:39 Fantasy Numbers Debate 50:45 Podcast and Homeless Crisis 54:30 Final Thanks and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Beverly, a longtime Bruce Springsteen fan from Missouri now living in Kentucky, to discuss how Springsteen's writing—especially around gender and politics—has resonated throughout her life. Beverly shares growing up with little music at home, discovering Bruce through “Dancing in the Dark” at 17, and how Born in the U.S.A. became her gateway to the full catalog. She recounts missing the Born in the U.S.A. tour, first seeing Bruce on the Human Touch/Lucky Town tour, later seeing the E Street Band on the Reunion Tour, and attending about 25 shows including Wrecking Ball-era dates and Springsteen on Broadway. They talk about fandom as comfort during family milestones, illness, and political turmoil, favorite tour moments and speeches, underrated songs she hopes to hear (“Spare Parts,” “Moonlight Motel”), and end with Beverly's answer to whether Mary gets in the car in “Thunder Road.” beverlybartlett.com 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 01:24 Beverly Background 02:06 Growing Up Without Music 04:02 First Records and Covers 05:05 Discovering Bruce at 17 09:21 First Concerts and Tours 11:20 Counting Shows and Empty Nest 12:05 Bruce and Bourbon Trip 15:07 Concert Adventures and Broadway 17:05 Songs as Family Soundtrack 18:29 Bruce Politics and Hope 21:41 Letter to You in 2020 24:40 Passing Fandom to Kids 27:31 Nebraska and Dark Stories 28:02 Tour Highlights and Moments 28:27 Speeches Hit Hard 29:06 Defending the Setlist 29:55 Catalog Depth Debate 32:17 Songs Change With Age 34:00 Lyrics as Lifelines 35:56 Family Fan Moments 37:02 Songs They're Chasing 42:04 Whats Next for Bruce 43:13 Reunion Tour to Rising 53:11 Thunder Road vs Sandy 54:56 Final Thanks and Goodbye Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes John to Set Lusting Bruce for a wide-ranging conversation beyond Springsteen. John, a Miami native, describes discovering music early, teaching himself by ear, forming a high-school a cappella group that pursued recording contracts and moved from Miami to New York and Washington, DC, before he left the group around age 25 due to financial realities and marketing challenges. He discusses choosing bass guitar, being left-handed, and returning to the University of Miami by working there to complete a Classics degree and a master's. A devoted Firefly fan, John recounts contributing to The Signal and attending Awesome Con. He then pitches his six-year Rumcast podcast, explaining rum's global diversity, additive issues, and entry recommendations, plus their Rumcast Reserve bottlings. John answers the “Mary question.” https://www.rumcast.com/ 01:29 Meet Jon and Tonight's Topics 02:03 Early Music Spark 03:05 Musical Home and Learning by Ear 05:45 High School A Cappella Crew 07:08 Chasing the Dream to NYC 08:15 MTV Karaoke and Record Deals 09:35 When to Walk Away 13:01 Parents Support and Band Fallout 15:33 Marketing Challenges and Aftermath 16:53 Why Bass Guitar 19:15 Reinventing Through College 21:50 Classics and Love of Latin 24:24 Firefly Fandom Begins 27:24 The Signal and Early Podcasting 30:09 Awesome Con Trip 31:40 Panels and Fandom Fun 32:37 Rumcast Origin Story 36:20 Rum Rules and Additives 41:13 Starter Rum Picks 45:54 Firefly Podcast Pact 46:19 Animated Firefly Hopes 49:48 Why Firefly Endures 52:30 Rumcast Reserve Update 53:26 Thunder Road Mary 56:04 Wrap and Housekeeping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Springsteen fan Audrey Hunn, a Philly-born travel agent and craft business owner, who recalls discovering Bruce through The River at summer camp and building friendships via the E Street community and her nearly 10,000-member Facebook group, “Calling All Bruce Springsteen Fans.” Audrey estimates she has attended close to 200 shows, praises the latest tour's sound, song choices, and the Morello “Ghost of Tom Joad” performance, and describes pivotal experiences: her first show in Philadelphia the night John Lennon was killed, getting a long-sought jacket autograph at the Sirius “Carousel” Promise event, enduring an overnight wait to be first at a Freehold book signing, hosting Jake Clemons for a living-room show, and dancing with Bruce during “Dancing in the Dark” after 56 days sober. She discusses nine years of sobriety, how Bruce's music helped, and answers that Mary Question. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes John Gulla to Set Lusting Bruce for a wide-ranging conversation beyond Springsteen. John, a Miami native, describes discovering music early, teaching himself by ear, forming a high-school a cappella group that pursued recording contracts and moved from Miami to New York and Washington, DC, before he left the group around age 25 due to financial realities and marketing challenges. He discusses choosing bass guitar, being left-handed, and returning to the University of Miami by working there to complete a Classics degree and a master's. A devoted Firefly fan, John recounts contributing to The Signal and attending Awesome Con. He then pitches his six-year Rumcast podcast, explaining rum's global diversity, additive issues, and entry recommendations, plus their Rumcast Reserve bottlings. John answers the “Mary question.” https://www.rumcast.com/ 00:00 Patreon Thanks 01:29 Meet John and Tonight's Topics 02:03 Early Music Spark 03:05 Musical Home and Learning by Ear 05:45 High School A Cappella Crew 07:08 Chasing the Dream to NYC 08:15 MTV Karaoke and Record Deals 09:35 When to Walk Away 13:01 Parents Support and Band Fallout 15:33 Marketing Challenges and Aftermath 16:53 Why Bass Guitar 19:15 Reinventing Through College 21:50 Classics and Love of Latin 24:24 Firefly Fandom Begins 27:24 The Signal and Early Podcasting 30:09 Awesome Con Trip 31:40 Panels and Fandom Fun 32:37 Rumcast Origin Story 36:20 Rum Rules and Additives 41:13 Starter Rum Picks 45:54 Firefly Podcast Pact 46:19 Animated Firefly Hopes 49:48 Why Firefly Endures 52:30 Rumcast Reserve Update 53:26 Thunder Road Mary 56:04 Wrap and Housekeeping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Host Jesse Jackson welcomes new friend John Mountain, a 64-year-old widower and longtime Bruce Springsteen fan, to discuss the music, shows, and stories that shaped him. John grew up in South Carolina before moving to Bakersfield, California, shares early influences like Elton John's Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, and recalls first hearing Springsteen through the 1981 No Nukes concert film, especially “The River.” A movie buff and horror fan, he talks Terrence Malick's Badlands, Nebraska's Starkweather connection, and directors like Mike Flanagan. John reflects on seeing Springsteen live three times, including a standout 1999 E Street Band show, and strongly supports artists speaking out politically. He names favorite Bruce songs across albums and answers the Thunder Road debate: 00:00 Show Intro 00:48 Meet John 01:59 Growing Up With Music 05:11 First Bruce Moment 07:58 No Nukes Deep Dive 09:24 Movies And Nebraska 12:25 Seeing Bruce Live 17:08 Politics And Patriotism 19:49 Move To California 21:27 Horror Movie Obsession 24:21 Mike Flanagan Favorites 27:20 Flanagan Cast Favorites 29:07 Samantha Sloyan Spotlight 31:36 Back to Music Talk 31:56 Nick Cave Murder Ballads 35:40 Modern Picks and Concerts 37:57 Springsteen Album Deep Dive 42:34 Thunder Road Mary Debate 44:24 Social Media and Farewell 46:11 Closing Reflection and Wish Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse Jackson welcomes retired Dallas TV legend Dale Hansen to talk about the passions that shaped his life, from covering decades of Cowboys highs and lows to the power of music and live performance. Dale shares how radio and early rock 'n' roll sparked his love of storytelling, why Rod Stewart is his all-time favorite, and what made Springsteen's Austin show and the E Street Band—especially Max Weinberg—so unforgettable. The conversation also turns to journalism, politics, and polarization, including Dale's 2019 message about speaking truth to power and how media and institutions are changing. Along the way, Dale tells memorable stories about Elvis, Tom Landry, Troy Aikman, Mickey Mantle, and the origins of his iconic “Thank God for Kids.” https://www.youtube.com/@DallasDialoguewithDale 00:00 Patreon Thanks 01:37 Meet Dale Hansen 03:38 Cowboys Fandom Stories 04:53 Sports as Theater 06:38 Local TV Changing 07:41 Journalism Truth to Power 11:21 Early Music and Radio 12:39 Disc Jockey Origins 14:42 Eclectic Tastes and Bruce 16:39 Austin Show Behind Stage 19:52 Elvis and Waylon Tales 26:00 Rod Stewart Fan Moment 29:55 First Springsteen Concert 32:45 Politics and Divides 35:57 Separating Art and Politics 37:16 Bruce Politics Debate 38:34 Fox News Bubble 39:02 Dinner Party Reality Check 40:38 Face to Face Arguments 44:25 Artists and Speaking Out 45:05 Concert Costs and Parking 46:51 Turn the Dial Critics 50:10 Beating Verne Lundquist 53:52 Starstruck Encounters 57:25 Super Bowl Lucky Life 01:00:54 Springsteen Concert Stories 01:04:54 Thank God For Kids Legacy 01:09:30 Landry Superman and Roasts 01:13:05 Podcast Plugs and Farewell 01:15:09 Housekeeping and Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Dallas sportswriter Tim Cowlishaw to discuss why Dallas teams are leaving the American Airlines Center area and the impact on fans, then shifts to music and Tim's Springsteen origin story. Tim recounts growing up between New Jersey and Texas, early influences like musicals and the Beatles, and discovering Bruce via a 1974 Columbia “Say Hello to Last Year's Genius” radio ad. He describes a canceled 1974 Sportatorium show, then seeing Springsteen up close at The Bottom Line in 1975 and attending about 30 shows, including a 1984 Chicago trip on the Born in the U.S.A. tour. Tim shares views on setlists and political talk on recent tours, praises The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle and the book Tonight in Jungland, reflects on Bruce's work ethic, and discusses favorites like Taylor Swift, Radiohead, and The National, plus Cowboys and writing life. https://a.co/d/04IjQ10n 00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 01:02 Dallas Teams Leaving Downtown 04:40 From Tulsa to Texas Roots 06:32 King Biscuit Bruce Discovery 08:19 First Shows and Close Calls 13:53 Chasing Tours and Great Seats 19:56 Setlists and Political Talk 21:17 Favorite Album and Studio Lore 24:24 Books and Nebraska Film Debate 25:31 Selling Out Debate 26:00 Springsteen Work Ethic 28:16 Columns And Retirement 29:43 Mavs Ownership Rants 32:50 Taylor Swift Live 35:50 Radiohead Berlin Trip 38:54 Cowboys Season Outlook 40:40 Around The Horn Farewell 41:15 Thunder Road Mary 43:11 Backstreets Terry Mystery 45:13 Wrap Up And Thanks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Dallas sportswriter Tim Cowlishaw to Set Lusting Bruce, beginning with a discussion about Dallas teams potentially leaving the American Airlines Center area and the impact on fans and downtown. Cowlishaw shares his upbringing in Tulsa, New Jersey, and Texas, early musical influences like Beatles and The Who, and how a King Biscuit Flower Hour Columbia Records ad led him to Bruce Springsteen's The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle. He recounts a canceled 1974 Dallas show and finally seeing Springsteen up close at The Bottom Line in 1975, leading to roughly 30 concerts over the years, including 1984 Chicago shows. They discuss setlist predictability, Bruce's political remarks on recent tours, favorite albums and books, and how Springsteen's work ethic influenced Cowlishaw's writing, along with talk of Taylor Swift, Radiohead, and the “Does Mary get in the car?” question. 00:00 Podcast Welcome 00:50 Dallas Teams Leaving 04:40 Growing Up With Music 06:32 Discovering Bruce 08:19 First Show Cancelled 09:20 Bottom Line Breakthrough 13:12 Chasing Shows Stories 19:21 Setlists And Politics 21:17 Favorite Albums And Books 24:24 Nebraska Movie Debate 26:00 Writing Influences 26:33 Bruce Work Ethic Lesson 28:16 Still Writing Columns 29:43 Mavs Missteps Brunson 32:50 Taylor Swift Live 35:50 Radiohead Berlin Trip 38:54 Cowboys Season Outlook 40:30 Around the Horn Reflections 41:15 Thunder Road Mary Debate 43:11 Backstreets Terry Meaning 45:13 Wrap Up Social Links Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Mireille Cameron, his Zendesk account manager, to Set Lusting Bruce to discuss her South Louisiana and North Carolina upbringing, early musical influences (Cajun, Zydeco, jazz, bluegrass, Prince), and how music shaped her life. Mireille shares why she finally saw Bruce Springsteen for the first time on the current tour in Cleveland over Memorial Day weekend, drawn by his longevity, message, and the communal, family-oriented concert culture. They talk about the show's powerful opening, standout moments like “Long Walk Home,” the band's energy and size, Bruce's three-hour no-break performance, and audience reactions. Mireille and her husband compare the experience to other live-music bucket list shows, discuss artists they've seen and hope to see, and she answers the podcast's “Mary” question. 00:39 Work Worlds Collide 01:57 Growing Up Musical 03:57 Louisiana Culture Vibes 06:28 No Music Rebellion 09:00 First Bruce Show Plans 10:45 Arena Family Energy 12:17 Opening Punch War 15:59 Surprises And Stamina 19:18 Band Highlights And Encore 22:58 Balancing Fans and Growth 24:21 Hopeful Songs and Unity 26:01 Bucket List Concerts 28:51 Local Shows and Folk Finds 30:00 New Orleans Music Trip 31:23 Festivals Food and Family 32:48 Clifton Chenier VIP Moment 34:48 Thunder Road Car Debate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes back musician and actor Levi Petry to catch up on Bruce Springsteen, starting with reactions to recent shows and the tour's purposeful, righteous energy, including standout moments like “War” into “Born in the U.S.A.,” “Long Walk Home,” “House of a Thousand Guitars,” “American Skin (41 Shots),” and the Tom Morello “Tom Joad” performance, plus crowd differences and setlist changes between nights. They discuss Springsteen's onstage comments condemning political violence, the challenge of balancing deep cuts with casual-fan expectations, and the craft of setlist construction. Levi shares mixed feelings about the film “Delivery From Nowhere,” then talks about Springsteen's unreleased-albums tracks before spotlighting his new EP “Sunday Morning Donut Run,” including the nearly seven-minute closer “A Big Love,” and where to stream it. https://www.levipetree.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes writer, podcaster, and comedian Courtney Kocak, who grew up in small-town Minnesota and now splits time between Austin and Los Angeles, to discuss her debut memoir, Girl Gone Wild. Courtney traces her musical influences from classic rock radio and movie soundtracks to college-era rap, indie, and classic rock, and shares how reading and acting shaped her love of storytelling. She recounts joining the Girls Gone Wild tour via a Craigslist ad, realizing the behind-the-scenes coercion and exploitation, and leaving after seven weeks amid depression and financial stress. The conversation follows her pivot from acting to writing, essaying, and podcasting, including her long-running show Private Parts Unknown, plus The Bleeders and Podcast Bestie, and touches on Stevie Nicks, Lilith Fair, stand-up goals, and the “Thunder Road” question of whether Mary gets in the car. https://www.courtneykocak.com/ 01:28 Meet Courtney Kocak 03:38 Growing Up With Music 07:10 College Tastes And Mixes 09:36 Books And Acting Bug 12:17 Acting School And Regrets 16:00 Girls Gone Wild Origins 19:20 Behind The Scenes Reality 20:52 Leaving The Tour 23:41 Finding Meaning Afterward 25:49 Funny Book Chapters 27:01 Leaving Acting for Writing 31:02 Finding Her Voice 31:43 Stevie Nicks Obsession 33:47 Private Parts Unknown 39:39 Creative Bucket List 40:50 Stand-Up and Perspective 44:41 Thunder Road Mary Debate 47:31 Where to Find Courtney 49:05 Final Sign-Off and Blessing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson steps outside the Springsteen universe for a B-side conversation with Ernest Lineberger, a retired Naval officer and former Texas Instruments supervisor/industrial engineer who ran for Congress in a tough Texas district, lost the 2024 general election, then continued organizing town halls, protests, and outreach before losing a subsequent primary. Lineberger discusses why voters change their minds, the need for better-informed civic engagement, and frustration with politics as a “team sport,” including concerns about executive overreach, tariffs, and billionaire influence. He shares a childhood shaped by frequent moves, time in Italy and Monterey, and his Navy chaplain father's strong influence on his Christian beliefs and inclusivity. Now fully retired, he's supporting candidates like Vicki Goodwin, planning reunions, and promoting his memoir, There I Was. The episode closes with the show's “Thunder Road” Mary question. 00:49 Meet Ernest Lineberger 02:30 Navy Career and TI 03:59 Why I Ran for Congress 06:26 Campaign Grind and Primary Loss 08:10 Texas Democrats Outlook 09:57 Representation and Fairness 11:20 Changing Minds in Politics 17:00 Early Music and Moving Abroad 19:56 Monterey High School Years 23:20 Faith and Community Values 26:35 Military Base Upbringing 27:29 Politeness and Listening 29:23 Why Veterans Matter 33:38 Getting Informed to Vote 36:07 Common Ground and Cynicism 38:58 Springsteen and Hope 41:27 America Abroad and Trust 43:38 Life After Campaigning 44:04 Book Stories and Motivation 47:18 Service and Gratitude 50:59 Thunder Road Mary Question 52:13 How to Reach Ernest 53:54 Podcast Wrap and Plugs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On a JKL Media Podcast one-off special, Lou introduces Canadian prog-rock/metal trio Rush and asks Karen and Jesse for reactions, starting with a yes/no on Geddy Lee's voice (Karen yes, Jesse no). Lou frames Rush as a technically revered “musician's band,” outlines the members' roles, and compares their music to headphone-focused listening like Pink Floyd. Karen and Jesse discuss songs from Lou's list—both like “The Spirit of Radio,” Karen names “Tom Sawyer” as her favorite and relates to “Subdivisions,” while Jesse says many tracks sound similar but appreciates the lyrics and openness to the experience. They praise the 2010 documentary for its celebrity supporters and for revealing the band's low-drama, nerdy camaraderie, highlighting Alex Lifeson's humor and Neil Peart's tragedy and return to music, and they note interest in a needed “chapter two” and the band's later-era touring and new drummer Anika Nilles. 00:00 Welcome and Setup 00:39 Geddy Voice Debate 01:23 Rush Primer 03:04 Song List Reactions 04:03 Rush Recognition Talk 07:56 Karen Favorites 10:22 Documentary Overview 11:53 Karen Doc Impressions 15:14 Jesse Doc Takeaways 18:36 Toronto Roots and Memories 20:04 Rick Moranis Connection 20:55 Neil Peart Tragedy 21:26 Band Reunites Again 21:43 Neil Peart Cancer Secret 22:50 Annika Nilles Joins Tour 24:48 Why Rush Endures 26:48 Comedy And Early Memories 29:10 Musicianship Deep Dive 32:09 Low Drama Band Culture 34:25 Canada Love And Fandom 37:33 Live Videos And Wrap Up 40:13 Where To Find Everyone Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Set Lusting Bruce continues its “Pride in Bruce” series for June, celebrating LGBTQ+ stories and the ways Bruce Springsteen's music can become a lifeline. Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Sylvan Groth, his Perfectly Good Podcast co-host, who shares growing up in suburban Boston, coming out as bi in the 1990s amid increased queer visibility, and facing emotional abuse and slurs from her stepfather while her mother tried to keep peace. Sylvan describes finding refuge with her aunt in Vermont—where a pride flag on a barn signaled safety—and how Springsteen albums and mix tapes helped her cope, even as her stepfather also loved Bruce. The conversation reflects on grief, activism, and joy, the idea of “family of origin” versus “family of choice,” and the importance of common ground, compassion, and honest storytelling amid polarization. 01:48 Podcast Welcome 03:09 Sylvan Coming Out Story 06:48 Home Life and Safety 07:52 Vermont Refuge and Bruce 09:23 Why Pride Matters 10:06 Slurs and Breaking Point 12:14 Finding Common Ground 18:19 Faith and Scripture Debate 20:51 Self Acceptance and Activism 24:22 Politics and Polarization 25:36 Thanks and Where to Listen 27:29 Pride in Bruce Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alonzo Duralde joins the podcast to discuss his upbringing in an immigrant Spanish family in Atlanta, early influences from radio, classical music, and repertory cinema, and how Siskel & Ebert inspired him to pursue criticism. Duralde shares insights from his book Hollywood Pride, covering LGBTQ+ representation and creators from silent film to Everything Everywhere All at Once, plus surprises from his research. They talk Hallmark movies and how Duralde became part of the Deck the Hallmark team, his Christmas movie books, and “music biopic fatigue,” including thoughts on Deliver Me From Nowhere. Duralde reflects on queer identity and the impact of artists like Jimmy Somerville. http://www.patreon.com/LinoleumKnife http://www.patreon.com/bfastallday https://maximumfun.org/podcasts/maximum-film/ In Stores Now: HAVE YOURSELF A MOVIE LITTLE CHRISTMAS, Revised and Updated Second Edition (Bloomsbury) https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/have-yourself-a-movie-little-christmas-9781493087440 In Stores Now: HOLLYWOOD PRIDE (TCM/Running Press) https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/alonso-duralde/hollywood-pride/9780762485895/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson welcomes Mike Gendler to discuss the world of tribute bands, podcasting, and their shared love for Bruce Springsteen. Mike, a lifelong musician and entrepreneur, shares his journey from playing the piano and drums in his Philadelphia home to founding a successful entertainment company and starting the Tribute Band Sessions podcast. Learn about Mike's unique experiences, such as playing at a private party for Pink Floyd and the nuances of recreating the authentic sounds of iconic bands. They also delve into why tribute bands have gained popularity and the importance of both musical fidelity and live performance energy. Tune in for engaging stories and insightful discussions on the art of tribute bands. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:39 Mike's Musical Journey 02:49 Early Career Highlights 04:18 Family Influence and Musical Inspirations 08:48 Tribute Bands and Podcasting 09:31 The Business of Tribute Bands 19:03 Surprising Moments and Celebrity Encounters 22:00 The Passion of Rock Stars 23:07 The Popularity of Tribute Bands 24:32 Setting Up the Perfect Set List 28:10 Mimicking the Original Band 33:17 Bruce Springsteen Stories 39:31 Final Thoughts and The Mary Question Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The episode launches the Pride in Bruce series for Pride Month, celebrating LGBTQ+ stories and the ways Bruce Springsteen's music can be a lifeline. Host Jesse Jackson interviews Jason Bisogni, a Westchester, New York marketing professional and lifelong music fan, about his path into classic rock, his early concert experiences, and the moment he became a dedicated Springsteen fan after seeing the 1999 E Street Band reunion tour. Jason shares that he came out later in life (to two people at 39, more fully at 41 in 2021) and explains how Bruce's lyrics took on new meaning afterward, citing songs like “Darkness on the Edge of Town,” “Trapped,” “Living Proof,” and “Two Hearts.” He credits Bob Dylan's “It's All Over Now, Baby Blue” line “He not busy being born is busy dying” as pivotal, discusses chasing songs live, recounts meeting Bruce several times, and answers the “Thunder Road” question by saying Mary does not get in the car. 00:00 Pride in Bruce Intro 01:48 Meet Jesse and Jason 02:21 Jason's Music Roots 03:18 Family Soundtrack Growing Up 06:43 Wrestling Detour and WWE 11:45 Concerts That Sparked It 14:59 Finding Bruce Springsteen 17:29 First E Street Show Magic 19:34 Counting Shows and Fandom 20:48 Static Setlist Debate 24:25 Health, Travel, and Missing Shows 26:27 Bruce and Coming Out Journey 27:01 Coming Out With The Boss 29:32 Lyrics Hit Different Now 32:07 Gay Icon Podcast Picks 34:23 Forever Favorites Playlist 38:18 Born Or Busy Dying 41:04 Songs Still Chasing Live 43:24 Meeting Bruce Stories 48:25 Thunder Road Mary Debate 50:39 Gratitude Pride Month Wrap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson kicks off Pride in Bruce Month on Set Lusting Bruce with guest Niko Stratis, a Toronto-based writer originally from Canada's Yukon. Niko describes growing up in a music- and book-filled home, later leaving construction work after coming out as trans, and building a writing career through online essays, including an early op-ed that prompted an attempted libel threat. Niko recounts discovering Bruce Springsteen later in life—initially misreading Born in the U.S.A.—and connecting deeply to Bruce's earnestness, storytelling, and songs like “Dancing in the Dark,” “Thunder Road,” “Drive All Night,” and Nebraska tracks. Niko discusses their book, The Dad Rock That Made Me a Woman, a memoir-mixtape where “Dancing in the Dark” becomes a pivotal catalyst for coming out, and shares where to find their work online. Find out more about Niko here - https://www.nikostratis.com/ Amazon Link for The Dad Rock that Made me a Women - here https://a.co/d/0git0VZh 02:46 Niko Background Story 04:03 Music in the Yukon 09:35 Reading and Escape 11:13 Comics Marvel vs DC 13:56 Becoming a Writer 17:02 First Op-Ed and Lawsuit 18:01 Discovering Springsteen 20:56 Why Bruce Hit Home 22:58 Dancing in the Dark Deep Dive 27:10 Writing the Dad Rock Book 29:14 Mixtape Memoir Blueprint 30:55 Springsteen Awakening Moment 32:34 Impostor Syndrome and Belonging 38:55 Songs That Shaped Me 44:58 Why Read the Book 49:56 Does Mary Get In 53:24 Where to Find Niko 55:08 Pride Month Signoff Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Los Angeles–based musician and music teacher Jake Cassman, who shares his path from growing up in Berkeley on classic rock and '90s alternative to discovering Bruce Springsteen later through a 2008 Obama rally performance, long bus rides through New Jersey, and years playing dueling pianos. Jake discusses teaching recording and songwriting at The Geffen Academy, the realities of freelancing (busking, weddings, improv), and how COVID ended live work and pushed him into a USC master's program that led to greater stability and new opportunities, including producing for the podcast Switched on Pop. He explains why he shifted from the Drunken Logic moniker to releasing music under his own name, introduces his album Idling High, performs “We All Look the Same,” and talks songwriting, storytelling, and favorite Springsteen albums, ending with the classic Thunder Road question. https://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/pdst.fm/e/pscrb.fm/rss/p/traffic.megaphone.fm/PAN6239596108.mp3 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 02:00 Teaching Music in LA 03:00 TeachRock and Music Education 04:27 Writing and Community Programs 05:35 Growing Up With Rock 07:32 Finding Bruce Springsteen 09:14 Early Music Obsession 10:31 Dueling Pianos Stories 12:31 Requests and Deep Cuts 15:10 Freelance Music Career 17:38 Rebranding as Jake Kassman 19:17 Pandemic Shock and Pivot 22:41 Freelancing and Saying Yes 25:52 Better Paying Gigs 26:32 Idling High Origins 28:15 We All Look the Same 33:33 Storytelling Gets Universal 36:19 Bruce Road Trip Deep Dive 39:28 Next Creative Steps 40:40 Pop Podcast Tangent 44:00 Thunder Road Debate 47:53 Where To Find Jake 49:34 Final Wrap And Thanks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson opens a B-side episode of Set Lusting Bruce with musician and worship leader Brigitte Donahoe, who shares her journey from growing up in Atlantic City, Las Vegas, California, and Michigan to becoming a songwriter, wife, and homeschooling mom of two. Brigitte discusses her eclectic influences ('90s rock/ska, R&B vocalists, and later country), her complicated early church experience, and a pivotal youth conference encounter that brought her back to faith. She describes starting songwriting at 14, releasing her first EP Restored, and performing at festivals, churches, and Christian nights at local bars. She also reflects on “Cherish Moments,” her grief-inspired song “Keep On,” her desire to make rock music, and her hope for more listening and grace in the church. https://brigittedonoho.com/home 00:00 B-Side Welcome 01:14 Meet Brigitte 01:59 Growing Up Musical 03:30 Country Music Conversion 05:34 Faith Roots and Doubts 07:14 Choosing Belief 11:14 Music Takes Over 12:52 Songwriting Calling 15:23 Going Pro in Music 16:26 Through His Eyes Story 18:06 Faith and Politics Divide 20:34 Church Needs Grace 22:37 Assume Good Intent 22:59 Cherish Moments Talk 24:05 Better Days Mindset 26:06 Starting Live Gigs 26:57 Missing The CD Era 28:11 Dreaming Of Rock 30:25 Touring As A Family 31:52 Songs That Heal Grief 36:34 Farewell And Housekeeping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes returning guest Tom to discuss the current Bruce Springsteen tour, upcoming shows in DC, Austin, and Atlanta, and reactions to the set list, including excitement about rarely played songs like “Born in the U.S.A.” Tom introduces his new Substack, “Blue Collar Costumes: A Comparative Study of Bruce Springsteen, Stephen King, and the World That Made Them,” which supports a larger book project exploring parallels between Springsteen and King—similar East Coast working-class roots, complicated or absent fathers, and mothers as driving forces—within a broader post–World War II social history. Tom outlines the Substack's monthly themes and posting schedule, starting in May, including a first theme on “Fractured Fathers,” plus Tolkien posts and fiction. They also discuss recent King adaptations and favorite King books, and share subscription details. https://bluecollarcostumes.substack.com/ 00:39 Welcome and Guest Intro 02:00 Tour Talk and Setlist Buzz 04:37 New Project Reveal 06:41 Bruce and King Parallels 11:23 Substack Format and Themes 15:31 Stephen King Adaptations 17:32 Favorite King Books 20:21 Where to Find Substack 22:16 Pricing and Subscriber Tiers 27:08 Wrap Up and Farewell 28:08 Housekeeping and Links https://bluecollarcostumes.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson opens a B-side episode of Set Lusting Bruce with musician and worship leader Brigitte Donahoe, who shares her journey from growing up in Atlantic City, Las Vegas, California, and Michigan to becoming a songwriter, wife, and homeschooling mom of two. Brigitte discusses her eclectic influences ('90s rock/ska, R&B vocalists, and later country), her complicated early church experience, and a pivotal youth conference encounter that brought her back to faith. She describes starting songwriting at 14, releasing her first EP Restored, and performing at festivals, churches, and Christian nights at local bars. She also reflects on “Cherish Moments,” her grief-inspired song “Keep On,” her desire to make rock music, and her hope for more listening and grace in the church. https://brigittedonoho.com/home 00:00 B-Side Welcome 01:14 Meet Brigitte 01:59 Growing Up Musical 03:30 Country Music Conversion 05:34 Faith Roots and Doubts 07:14 Choosing Belief 11:14 Music Takes Over 12:52 Songwriting Calling 15:23 Going Pro in Music 16:26 Through His Eyes Story 18:06 Faith and Politics Divide 20:34 Church Needs Grace 22:37 Assume Good Intent 22:59 Cherish Moments Talk 24:05 Better Days Mindset 26:06 Starting Live Gigs 26:57 Missing The CD Era 28:11 Dreaming Of Rock 30:25 Touring As A Family 31:52 Songs That Heal Grief 36:34 Farewell And Housekeeping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson presents a B-side episode of Set Lusting Bruce featuring Neat, a Punjabi Thai Sikh independent recording artist and development psychology graduate student from Bangkok who moved to New York at 25. Neat describes growing up with Bollywood and religious music, discovering Western artists like Britney Spears and Eminem, and secretly writing lyrics that sparked her own songwriting; her father destroyed her rap cassettes, prompting her to graffiti her wall in protest. She explains how music “found” her repeatedly, including through her Thailand-based Freedom of Expression project empowering girls, and later after surviving years of domestic violence, coercive control, and a nine-year New York family-court custody battle she says ignored psychological abuse. Her song and video “Rise” recount and reenact these experiences, fueling advocacy and a Change.org petition. She discusses cultural-musical blending, upcoming singles and videos, and plans for an EP or album, and shares a message of resilience and seeking help. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0NUUhrMHrQ ProtectChildrenNY – Child Protection Reform Initiative: https://www.change.org/ProtectChildrenNY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes music journalist, publicist, label executive, and manager Danny Goldberg for a B-side conversation about music memories and Bruce Springsteen connections. Goldberg recounts growing up in Hastings-on-Hudson with classical, folk, and cast albums, then shifting to rock after discovering Dylan, the Beatles, and the Stones, and later covering Woodstock for Billboard in 1969. He explains moving from criticism to publicity, becoming Led Zeppelin's publicist, and shaping press narratives around their massive ticket sales amid skeptical critics. Goldberg discusses co-directing and co-producing the 1979 No Nukes film, meeting Springsteen during editing, and securing approval to use key performances after adding political context. He also talks about his books, including the reissued memoir Bumping Into Geniuses, reacts emotionally to Springsteen's “Streets of Philadelphia,” praises the Nebraska film Deliver Me From Nowhere, shares work with Bonnie Raitt and Steve Earle, and answers the “Mary” question about Thunder Road. https://www.dannygoldberg.com 00:37 Meet Danny Goldberg 01:38 No Nukes and Bruce 03:21 Growing Up Musical 05:00 Rock Awakening 08:22 First Bruce Encounter 08:46 Books and Writing 10:28 Billboard and Woodstock 13:43 From Critic to Publicist 17:21 What Publicists Do 21:15 Led Zeppelin PR Win 26:17 Aiming for Management 27:44 First Book Teaser 28:03 Left Lost Teen Spirit 28:52 Bumping Into Geniuses 29:34 Why Write Memoirs 30:25 Streets of Minneapolis 33:20 No Nukes Editing 35:39 Politics In The Cut 36:49 Deliver Me From Nowhere 40:11 Bonnie Raitt And Hyatt 41:55 Whats Next Ahead 43:41 Mary Gets In Car Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse Jackson, contact center leader and host of Set Lusting Bruce, joins Mark Graban to share his favorite mistake: going gun-shy as a new leader when veterans push back with "we tried that, it didn't work." Jesse explains why that deference cost him his best ideas, and how a Harry Chapin story about "two kinds of tired" reshaped the way he leads. Episode page with video, links, and more We get into the real cost of staying quiet when you're new, the difference between listening to your team and being silenced by them, and the Aaron Sorkin line about surrounding yourself with smart people who disagree with you. Jesse also shares a cautionary tale about volunteering for a role he wasn't ready for, and what he changed about how he chooses opportunities now. The conversation moves into what psychological safety actually looks like day to day - treating new ideas as honest experiments rather than ego defense, and making sure team members feel heard even when their advice isn't taken. We close with a stretch of podcasting craft (forgetting to hit record, scheduling buffers, the value of embracing tangents) plus tangents of our own on Bruce Springsteen, the misunderstood patriotism of "Born in the U.S.A.," and Spinal Tap. If you've ever walked into a new role with ideas and quietly let them die in the face of "that won't work here," this episode will give you a sharper way to think about when to push and when to listen.

The echoes of Sunday night in Austin are still alive with me. The joy, unity, and tender moments at the Springsteen concert served as a reminder of the goodness we can foster in the world. Do yourself a favor and soak up this experience if you can! Email me at Setlustingbruce@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson introduces a B-side episode of Set Lusting Bruce featuring Ryan Riker, a North Dakota native and retired Army infantry lieutenant colonel who served 23 years with deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. Ryan recalls early music influences (country fairs, Vanilla Ice, Pearl Jam) and discusses how music and visiting performers helped soldiers feel connected during deployments. He describes a Catholic upbringing, struggles with alcoholism and prescription drug abuse, and a turning point after his last drink on November 26, 2023, followed by AA, renewed Christian faith, job loss, divorce, and rebuilding his life by starting a business. Ryan explains his coaching and writing focused on trauma, limiting beliefs, and healing, outlines his podcast “Our Healer, Our Protector,” and shares goals of supporting his daughters and speaking to youth. https://ourprotectordevelopment.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson introduces a B-side episode of Set Lusting Bruce featuring Ryan Riker, a North Dakota native and retired Army infantry lieutenant colonel who served 23 years with deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. Ryan recalls early music influences (country fairs, Vanilla Ice, Pearl Jam) and discusses how music and visiting performers helped soldiers feel connected during deployments. He describes a Catholic upbringing, struggles with alcoholism and prescription drug abuse, and a turning point after his last drink on November 26, 2023, followed by AA, renewed Christian faith, job loss, divorce, and rebuilding his life by starting a business. Ryan explains his coaching and writing focused on trauma, limiting beliefs, and healing, outlines his podcast “Our Healer, Our Protector,” and shares goals of supporting his daughters and speaking to youth. https://ourprotectordevelopment.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse and his friend Ken Schaefer discuss Ken's love of B moives and his thoughts on the Oscar winnning film, Sinners Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Jesse discuss the significance of the 2026 Land of Hope and Dreams tour. Jesse argues the 2026 tour is a “patriotic protest tour” centered on democracy, freedom, and the Constitution, citing song choices like “War,” a reclaimed “Born in the U.S.A.,” “Purple Rain,” and “Clampdown,” and suggests it may serve as a punctuation mark in Springsteen's story! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes London-based journalist Maddie Frye to a “timey-wimey” episode of Set Lusting Bruce, exploring her path to Bruce Springsteen and U2 and how music shaped her spiritual and political awakening. Maddie, who writes about religion, sex, politics, and pop culture, describes growing up near London with parents who loved Bowie, Pink Floyd, Dire Straits, and Genesis, discovering U2 at 12–13 through All That You Can't Leave Behind, and finding Springsteen via a 2006 BBC broadcast of the Seeger Sessions that felt both political and spiritually transformative. She discusses working backward through Bruce's catalog, key live shows (including London 2013 and Liverpool with Paul McCartney), family connections to Springsteen, and reflections on religion's relationship with power. Maddie answers the “Thunder Road” question—Mary gets in the car—and shares where to find her Substack, U2 and Us. 00:00 Podcast Welcome 00:45 Meet Maddie 01:55 Growing Up Musical Roots 04:07 Finding Bruce via Seeger 06:23 Seeger Sessions Meaning 10:30 Working Backwards Catalog 14:12 Live Shows Life Changes 18:54 How Many Shows Seen 20:45 Discovering U2 Obsession 23:20 Fandom Numbers Talk 24:52 Writing Religion Politics 25:02 Music Sparks Big Questions 26:24 Faith Through Lyrics 28:00 Reading Toward Belief 29:22 Faithless Research Journey 32:53 Religion Meets Politics 36:13 Radical Gospel Values 41:01 Privilege Luck and Power 44:03 Liverpool Show Memories 46:06 Facing Mortality of Icons 48:24 Thunder Road Mary Answer 49:48 Where to Find Maddie 50:53 Podcast Wrap and Housekeeping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some fans aren't thrilled with the Land of Hope and Dreams setlist — and Jesse has thoughts. He shares his HBO (Hot Bruce Opinion) and invites anyone who disagrees to send their counter‑take to setlustingbruce@gmail.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes London-based journalist Maddie Fry to a “timey wimey” episode of Set Lusting Bruce to discuss how she discovered Bruce Springsteen through a 2006 BBC broadcast of The Seeger Sessions, then worked backward through albums like Devils & Dust, Magic, and The River, becoming a deeper fan after a powerful 2013 London show and later attending the Liverpool concert where Paul McCartney joined Bruce onstage. Maddie also traces her lifelong devotion to U2, sparked in early-2000s adolescence by All That You Can't Leave Behind and The Joshua Tree, and explains how music by Springsteen, U2, and Johnny Cash shaped her political awareness and led her into writing about religion, spirituality, and culture. The conversation explores faith's relationship with power, modern politics, and ends with Maddie's answer to the “Thunder Road” question and where to find her Substack, U2 and Us. https://www.premierchristianity.com/culture/faithless-the-story-behind-bruce-springsteens-soundtrack-to-a-lost-spiritual-western/20448.article https://u2andus.substack.com/ 00:00 Podcast Welcome 00:45 Meet Maddie Across Timezones 02:00 Growing Up and Early Music 04:07 Finding U2 First 06:23 Seeger Sessions Lightning Bolt 10:33 Working Back Through Bruce 12:40 Devils and Dust Deep Dive 14:12 2013 Show Turns Superfan 18:54 Concert Counts and Uncle Andy 20:45 U2 Origin Story 23:20 U2 Shows and Fandom Culture 24:52 Writing Religion and Politics 25:02 Music Sparks Meaning 26:24 Faith Through Lyrics 28:00 Reading Toward Belief 29:29 Faithless Research Journey 32:37 Religion And Power 36:13 Radical Gospel Ethics 41:01 Privilege Luck And Myth 44:03 Liverpool Show Reverence 46:06 Facing Cultural Mortality 48:24 Mary Gets In The Car 49:48 Where To Find Maddie 50:53 Podcast Wrap And Plugs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes pop-culture lecturer and illustrator Arlen Schumer back to Set Lusting Bruce to discuss his three passions—Bruce Springsteen, comic book art history, and Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone. Arlen explains what drew him to Twilight Zone imagery and storytelling, its influence on modern creators, and its early diversity and social themes, then connects Serling's dramatic voice to Springsteen's writing and speeches. The conversation shifts to Bruce fandom and live performance, including Arlen's deep focus on the September 19, 1978 Capitol Theatre broadcast and rare early footage like the Gaslight performance and “Wings for Wheels.” Arlen promotes a March 31 New York Adventure Club webinar on Springsteen live history and a planned June multimedia event tied to a New Jersey exhibit. They also discuss Springsteen's politics, “Streets of Minneapolis,” and Arlen's critiques of unreleased/altered outtakes like “Roulette.” https://arlenschumer.com/ https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1984298328717 00:00 Welcome and Arlen Returns 00:39 Arlen Background and Passions 03:00 Why Twilight Zone Matters 05:53 Twilight Zone Legacy and Influence 12:05 Connecting Twilight Zone to Bruce 16:23 Greatest Bruce Shows and 1978 19:44 First Bruce Show and Fan Journeys 22:01 Bruce Live Ethos and Spanish Harlem 23:54 Promoting the Bruce Webinar 26:15 Gaslight Footage and March 31 Plan 29:15 Rare 1975 Footage 30:00 Wings for Wheels Magic 31:50 Desert Island Thunder Road 32:34 High Hopes Show Memories 34:15 Dream Baby Dream Debate 35:27 Webinar and Links 35:57 June Exhibit Plans 37:30 Bruce and Politics 42:09 Roulette and Outtakes 45:40 Release Decisions Rant 48:32 True President Finale 50:16 Wrap Up and Goodbye Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson opens a B-side episode of Set Lusting Bruce that steps outside the Springsteen universe to spotlight guest Cece's creative joys, blending their shared love of Hallmark movies with music fandom and community. Cece, who grew up near Washington, DC, describes her family's listening (ZZ Top, Southern rock, blues/R&B, show tunes) and how she gravitated instead to Prince, Michael Jackson, politically driven rap, and alternative/punk discovered through WHFS, MTV's 120 Minutes, and films like Suburbia. She studied political science at Virginia Tech, attended law school at Temple, passed the New Jersey bar, but left legal work due to culture fit. Cece recounts becoming obsessed with live music—especially seeing Barenaked Ladies about 80 times, later following Steven Page's solo work and Zoom concerts—and discusses the Avett Brothers fan song-tracking database, concertgoing community, and her current perfume hobby. 00:00 B-Side Detour Intro 00:37 Hallmark Meets Music 01:31 Cece Finds Hallmark Comfort 05:05 Growing Up Near DC 08:26 Finding Her Own Sound 10:33 Politics And Punk Identity 13:33 Films Over Books 14:57 Law School And Philly Bruce 19:17 Workplace Conformity Clash 21:55 Live Music Obsession Begins 22:29 Bare Naked Ladies Era 29:11 Setlists And Fan Databases 32:54 Chasing Rare Songs 33:24 Why See Bands Repeatedly 34:35 Concert Community Bonds 37:31 Music Recommendations Swap 39:54 Bruce Politics And Tours 41:35 Finding The Avett Brothers 43:39 Solo Shows And Fan Culture 47:11 Meeting Musicians Up Close 53:15 Where To Find Cece 53:35 Perfume Rabbit Hole 55:40 Final Thanks And Plugs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson opens a B-side episode of Set Lusting Bruce that steps outside the Springsteen universe to spotlight guest Cece's creative joys, blending their shared love of Hallmark movies with music fandom and community. Cece, who grew up near Washington, DC, describes her family's listening (ZZ Top, Southern rock, blues/R&B, show tunes) and how she gravitated instead to Prince, Michael Jackson, politically driven rap, and alternative/punk discovered through WHFS, MTV's 120 Minutes, and films like Suburbia. She studied political science at Virginia Tech, attended law school at Temple, passed the New Jersey bar, but left legal work due to culture fit. Cece recounts becoming obsessed with live music—especially seeing Barenaked Ladies about 80 times, later following Steven Page's solo work and Zoom concerts—and discusses the Avett Brothers fan song-tracking database, concertgoing community, and her current perfume hobby. 00:00 B-Side Detour Intro 00:37 Hallmark Meets Music 01:31 Cece Finds Hallmark Comfort 05:05 Growing Up Near DC 08:26 Finding Her Own Sound 10:33 Politics And Punk Identity 13:33 Films Over Books 14:57 Law School And Philly Bruce 19:17 Workplace Conformity Clash 21:55 Live Music Obsession Begins 22:29 Bare Naked Ladies Era 29:11 Setlists And Fan Databases 32:54 Chasing Rare Songs 33:24 Why See Bands Repeatedly 34:35 Concert Community Bonds 37:31 Music Recommendations Swap 39:54 Bruce Politics And Tours 41:35 Finding The Avett Brothers 43:39 Solo Shows And Fan Culture 47:11 Meeting Musicians Up Close 53:15 Where To Find Cece 53:35 Perfume Rabbit Hole 55:40 Final Thanks And Plugs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes back college professor Maryanne Janosik to discuss Bruce Springsteen's newly released protest song, its rapid creative turnaround, and how it fits Springsteen's history of politically charged music and themes of Catholic social justice. They compare the song's naming of names to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's “Ohio,” speculate about political expression at the Grammys, and reflect on concerns about free speech, polarization, and the shrinking space for teaching controversial art and history. The conversation shifts to film awards, including disappointment that “Deliver Me From Nowhere” received no Oscar nominations, debate about biopic fatigue, and Maryanne's recommended under-the-radar films such as “Train Dreams,” Linklater's “Blue Moon” and “Nouvelle Vague,” “Sorry, Baby,” and the baseball film “Eefus,” plus praise for “Sinners” and “Fruitvale Station.” https://www.mjthemovies.com/ 00:00 Welcome Back Maryanne 00:33 Meet Maryanne Janosik 01:50 Bruce Drops New Protest Song 02:55 How Artists Create Fast 05:26 Protest Music Context 07:38 Catholic Imagination Social Justice 08:45 Teaching Songs of Protest 11:07 Grammys Politics and Censorship 13:30 Academic Freedom Under Pressure 17:13 Reviewing the New Song 20:36 Super Bowl Halftime Culture 23:44 Oscars and Springsteen Films 24:37 Box Office vs Oscars 25:35 Deliver Me From Nowhere 28:36 Biopic Fatigue Debate 30:26 Good vs Great Movies 32:24 Why Sinners Works 36:48 Michael B Jordan Rise 39:23 Under the Radar Picks 45:08 Catherine OHara Tribute 47:02 Wrap Up and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Holly, co-host of the mostly '80s music show What Difference Does It Make? Podcast, for a wide-ranging conversation that moves beyond Bruce Springsteen into radio, fandom, and podcasting. Holly shares her early love of AM radio after moving from New York to Los Angeles, her career behind the scenes in radio syndication and production, and how her parents' music shaped her broad tastes. She recounts discovering U2 on the 1983 War tour, seeing them across every tour, and a highlight at the Sphere, plus taking her son to Bono's Stories of Surrender. Holly and Jesse discuss how her podcast began in 2018, evolved through studio recording and pandemic-era Zoom access to guests, and the challenges of monetization and audience engagement. They close with Holly's Springsteen memories and her view that Mary gets in the car in “Thunder Road.” https://www.wddimpodcast.com/ 00:00 Welcome and Setup 01:55 Holly's Radio Roots 05:21 Parents and Early Music 08:28 AM to FM Era 12:52 Discovering U2 Live 20:03 Concert Memories and Family 24:02 Podcast Mission and Format 27:51 Starting the Show Fast 31:44 Podcasting Advice and Growth 36:23 Guests and Great Interviews 38:33 Money Downloads and Rejection 41:26 Respectful Declines 41:46 Springsteen Intimidation 42:40 Ranking 80s Icons 46:08 Barry Manilow Stories 47:38 Podcast Growth Goals 51:04 Community Over Downloads 54:11 U2 Sphere Highlights 56:31 Bruce Live Memories 01:00:22 Music Tied to Family 01:06:24 Thunder Road Debate 01:08:32 Plugging The Podcast 01:11:51 Wrapping Up Goodbye Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes author and former teacher Sara Goodman-Confino to Set Lusting Bruce to talk Bruce Springsteen, fandom, and fiction. Sara shares her path from 21 years teaching to writing full-time, her Springsteen origin story rooted in hearing “Atlantic City” during a difficult college week, and her family's deep reading culture. She recounts seeing Bruce live (including being pulled onstage in Charlottesville in 2012 with a “Can I dance with Jake?” sign), attending dozens of shows, favorite songs and albums (especially Born to Run and “Backstreets”), and sending Bruce a copy of her novel Don't Forget to Write featuring a brief Bruce cameo. They discuss Sara's focus on humorous, intergenerational stories with strong female characters and “Jewish joy,” including why she writes Jewish characters beyond suffering narratives and how her novels highlight the recentness of women's legal and social limitations. Sara previews upcoming projects, including her June 9 release Off the Record about a young woman in a 1960s newspaper typing pool who uncovers a Cuban spy plot, plus a planned 2027 novel centered on the Beatles' first U.S. concert after Ed Sullivan. Find more about her and her books here - https://saraconfino.com/ 00:00 Welcome to Set Lusting Bruce + Meet Author Sara Goodman Canino 00:53 From Teacher to Full-Time Writer: Beyond the Palace Origins 03:54 Growing Up with Books & Classic Rock (and Early Bruce Memories) 05:24 The Springsteen Mix CD That Got Her Through Grief 10:13 Writing Strong Women & Finding Her Voice (Humor, Publishing, Historical Fiction) 13:29 Jewish Joy on the Page: Representation Beyond Trauma 16:28 Intergenerational Healing: The Mother-in-Law Story Behind Good Grief 19:24 New Release Spotlight: Off the Record—Jewish Romcom Meets Cold War Spy Thriller 23:00 Why the Early '60s Still Matters: Women's Rights, Research, and Remembering History 27:34 Why These Stories Matter (Especially for Younger Readers) 29:04 Next Novel Tease: The 1964 DC Beatles Show + A Photographer's Big Break 31:12 Switching Gears to Bruce: The ‘Dance with Jake' Sign & Getting Pulled Onstage 34:20 Counting Shows & Favorite Springsteen Songs (Born to Run, Backstreets, Sandy) 37:29 Have You Met Bruce? Mailing Him a Book + The New Jersey Cameo 39:27 Family Concert Memories: Dad, Uncle, and the Legendary Ticket Scores 42:46 What's Next as a Writer: Secret Projects, Building an Audience & Future Horror Book 44:09 Thunder Road Debate: Does Mary Get in the Car? (Plus ‘Waves' vs ‘Sways') 44:58 Where to Find Sara: Socials, Website, Buying Options & Final Wrap-Up Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful new episode of *Set Lusting Bruce*, host Jesse Jackson welcomes back author **Ann Abel**, whose memoir *High Hopes* Jesse calls one of his favorite reads of 2025. Abel—who discovered Bruce Springsteen at age 59—shares the extraordinary story behind her book: how a lifetime of severe depression, the loss of her teaching career, and a desperate need for structure pushed her to book a solo trip to Australia for **eight Springsteen shows across five cities in 26 days**. What began as an escape from “the abyss” became a journey of fear, resilience, connection, and unexpected joy. https://anneabelauthor.com/high-hopes/ Ann recounts: - **Battling self‑doubt and loneliness** while navigating a foreign country alone - A terrifying night stranded after the Hunter Valley show when her driver vanished and her flip phone died - Quiet, intimate moments of being “invisible” in hotel lobbies near E Street Band members - Meeting Bruce's longtime manager **Barbara Carr**, the conversations that followed, and the fundraiser where Ann won a silent auction to **co‑host SiriusXM's E Street Radio with Dave Marsh** - The months of intense rock‑history study she undertook to prepare—and the unforgettable on‑air moment when she corrected a punk‑rock attribution - How storytelling open mics and winning a **Moth StorySLAM** helped her break through writer's block and finally write *High Hopes* - Seeing the Springsteen movie and feeling deeply validated hearing Bruce speak openly about struggle - The concert moments that changed her life, including “Dream Baby Dream” and Bruce's reminder that “It's all right to have a good time” Ann also talks about her recent **TEDx talk**, her unexpected rise as a late‑in‑life social‑media creator with **750,000 followers and multiple viral videos**, her upcoming travels, and the joy of becoming a grandparent. She closes by sharing where listeners can follow her work online. This is an episode about music, survival, reinvention, and the way Bruce Springsteen's art can crack open a life at any age. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes author and former teacher Sara Goodman-Confino to Set Lusting Bruce to talk Bruce Springsteen, fandom, and fiction. Sara shares her path from 21 years teaching to writing full-time, her Springsteen origin story rooted in hearing “Atlantic City” during a difficult college week, and her family's deep reading culture. She recounts seeing Bruce live (including being pulled onstage in Charlottesville in 2012 with a “Can I dance with Jake?” sign), attending dozens of shows, favorite songs and albums (especially Born to Run and “Backstreets”), and sending Bruce a copy of her novel Don't Forget to Write featuring a brief Bruce cameo. They discuss Sara's focus on humorous, intergenerational stories with strong female characters and “Jewish joy,” including why she writes Jewish characters beyond suffering narratives and how her novels highlight the recentness of women's legal and social limitations. Sara previews upcoming projects, including her June 9 release Off the Record about a young woman in a 1960s newspaper typing pool who uncovers a Cuban spy plot, plus a planned 2027 novel centered on the Beatles' first U.S. concert after Ed Sullivan. Find more about her and her books here - https://saraconfino.com/ 00:00 Welcome to Set Lusting Bruce + Meet Author Sara Goodman Canino 00:53 From Teacher to Full-Time Writer: Beyond the Palace Origins 03:54 Growing Up with Books & Classic Rock (and Early Bruce Memories) 05:24 The Springsteen Mix CD That Got Her Through Grief 10:13 Writing Strong Women & Finding Her Voice (Humor, Publishing, Historical Fiction) 13:29 Jewish Joy on the Page: Representation Beyond Trauma 16:28 Intergenerational Healing: The Mother-in-Law Story Behind Good Grief 19:24 New Release Spotlight: Off the Record—Jewish Romcom Meets Cold War Spy Thriller 23:00 Why the Early '60s Still Matters: Women's Rights, Research, and Remembering History 27:34 Why These Stories Matter (Especially for Younger Readers) 29:04 Next Novel Tease: The 1964 DC Beatles Show + A Photographer's Big Break 31:12 Switching Gears to Bruce: The ‘Dance with Jake' Sign & Getting Pulled Onstage 34:20 Counting Shows & Favorite Springsteen Songs (Born to Run, Backstreets, Sandy) 37:29 Have You Met Bruce? Mailing Him a Book + The New Jersey Cameo 39:27 Family Concert Memories: Dad, Uncle, and the Legendary Ticket Scores 42:46 What's Next as a Writer: Secret Projects, Building an Audience & Future Horror Book 44:09 Thunder Road Debate: Does Mary Get in the Car? (Plus ‘Waves' vs ‘Sways') 44:58 Where to Find Sara: Socials, Website, Buying Options & Final Wrap-Up Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join host Jesse Jackson on a new episode of 'Set Lusting Bruce' as he steps off the Bruce train for a chat with rock journalist Martin Popoff. Together, they delve into Popoff's latest book, 'KISS 76: 12 Months that Define the Hottest Band in the Land.' The episode covers KISS's massive year in 1976, including iconic tours, releases, and cultural impact. Martin also shares his journey from heavy metal fandom to becoming a prolific rock historian, and discusses his unique podcast 'History in Five Songs.' Whether you're a die-hard KISS fan or just love rock history, this episode is a must-listen! 00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome 01:53 Guest Introduction and Background 03:10 Early Musical Influences and First Concerts 05:09 The Concept of Perfect Music 07:21 Latest Book: KISS 76 08:40 KISS in 1976: A Year in Review 17:40 KISS's Live Performances and Touring 25:11 The Ed Sullivan Moment and KISS's Influence 26:30 KISS's Unique Sound and Comparisons 29:01 Controversies and Public Perception 33:32 The Podcast and Writing Journey 37:31 Favorite Albums and Musical Preferences 39:13 The Mary Question and Final Thoughts 42:48 Outro and Housekeeping Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson welcomes back Scott Shea for a deep dive into the music and legacy of Sam Cooke. They discuss Cooke's impact on gospel, R&B, and pop music, his untimely death, and his influence on other artists. The episode also touches on Bruce Springsteen's career, including their thoughts on the 'electric' version of Nebraska and Brian Wilson's 'Smile.' Scott offers insights from his latest articles and shares exciting news about his upcoming book on Waylon Jennings. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:29 Scott's Career Update 02:00 Discussion on the New Pope 03:24 Sam Cooke's Musical Journey 09:52 Sam Cooke's Death and Legacy 16:33 Lou Rawls and Sam Cooke's Influence 18:48 Sam Cooke's Business Ventures 19:18 The Legacy of SAR Records 20:15 Exploring Sam Cooke's Greatest Hits 21:12 Cover Versions and Tributes to Sam Cooke 23:23 Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska and Its Impact 24:05 The Unreleased Gems of Music Legends 29:47 Brian Wilson's Smile: A Masterpiece Revisited 32:24 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices