Advertise on podcast: Jrodconcerts: The Podcast

On this episode of Jrodconcerts: The Podcast, we are coming to you after a great trip to beautiful Backstage Access Napa Valley for an intimate conversation with one of country music’s most captivating voices: Cyndi Thomson. Cyndi made history with her Gold-certified debut album My World and the #1 smash hit "What I Really Meant to Say." After famously walking away from the industry at the height of her stardom to prioritize her personal life, Cyndi has returned to the craft on her own terms. In this soulful chat, Cyndi opens up about the evolution of her artistry and the peace she’s found off-stage. We discuss: The Power of Presence: Why "being present where you are" has become her ultimate guiding principle. Newfound Wisdom: How life experience has fundamentally changed her approach to the music business. Creative Freedom: Why she feels more liberated in her songwriting today than during her early chart-topping years. The Heart of Napa: We look ahead to the future and have a little fun imagining what her signature wine label would be. Jamie also breaks down the massive legal news that hit the industry last week. A federal jury officially found Live Nation and Ticketmaster guilty of operating an illegal monopoly. As a media executive and voting member of the Academy, Jrod explains: The "Smoking Gun" evidence that showed fans were consistently overcharged. Why 34 State Attorneys General refused to settle and took the fight to a jury. What this means for the future of live touring and your wallet. Follow Jrodconcerts: Instagram: @jrodconcertsmedia Web: www.jrodconcertsmedia.com Don't forget to Like, Subscribe, and Share! __ Support the show: DoorDash: When life happens, get a little order delivered with DoorDash. Visit ⁠https://doordash.com⁠ today Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Jrodconcerts: The Podcast, we go behind the curtain of the music industry with one of Nashville’s most respected storytellers, Jackie Martinez Marushka. As a Hispanic PR trailblazer and founder of Marushka Media, Jackie has spent over 25 years building brands and managing the careers of world-class artists. We discuss her journey from a childhood obsession with American Bandstand to becoming an Amazon best-selling author with her new book, The PR Playbook. Jackie opens up about the evolving role of a publicist in 2026, the vital importance of maintaining authenticity, and why she chooses to work with clients who align with her values. Whether you are an aspiring artist, a creative entrepreneur, or a music lover, this conversation offers a masterclass in professional composure, breaking industry molds, and the art of the "personal brand." Topics discussed in this episode: The essential role of a modern publicist. Navigating the PR landscape in 2026. Staying authentic and the criteria for choosing clients. Jackie's experience as a Hispanic woman breaking barriers in the industry. Insights from her best-selling book, The PR Playbook. Managing high-pressure environments like Americanafest and the CMAs. Connect with Jackie: Website: marushkamedia.com Book: The PR Playbook: A Comprehensive Guide to Personal Branding & Public Relations ___ Support the show: DoorDash: When life happens, get a little order delivered with DoorDash. Visit ⁠https://doordash.com⁠ today Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when you mix "garage country" grit with the complex world of relationship psychology? On this episode of Jrodconcerts: The Podcast, I’m joined by the incredible Aubrie Sellers to discuss her most ambitious project yet: Attachment Theory. Aubrie is a true Nashville original, and on her third studio album, she’s bracing through the "hellscape of modern dating" with raw, real reflections on intimacy, avoidant attachment, and the trauma compartments we all carry. We discuss why she’s always felt like an "observer" after growing up on tour with her mom, Lee Ann Womack, and how that perspective fueled her new record. In this episode, we dive into: The "Moral Code" of Dating: Why romance feels like it’s in a state of demise in 2026 and how Aubrie uses songwriting as catharsis. Psychology & Music: The inspiration behind her Attachment Theory podcast and the "little rooms" of the human mind. Behind the Scenes: Working with mutual friends and collaborators Ethan Ballinger and Lillie Mae. From the Screen to the Stage: The experience of hearing her music on Yellowstone and what to expect from her upcoming headline tour with Jade Jackson. __ Connect with Aubrie Sellers: Official Site: aubriesellers.com Instagram: @aubriesellers New Music: Attachment Theory (Out Now) __ Connect with Jrodconcerts Media: Instagram: @jrodconcertsmedia Website: jrodconcertsmedia.com Love the show? Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! It helps more than you know. __ Support the show: DoorDash: When life happens, get a little order delivered with DoorDash. Visit ⁠https://doordash.com⁠ today Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Modern alternative music doesn’t need a machine behind it—just vision, grit, and truth." Today on Jrodconcerts: The Podcast, we’re joined by Nashville’s own Nicole Alexis (stylized as N/A). After years of being the secret weapon behind the scenes for other artists, Nicole is stepping into the spotlight as a true one-woman operation. As a producer, engineer, and multi-instrumentalist, she has built a massive community of hundreds of thousands by staying fiercely independent and refreshingly transparent. In this episode, we go deep into the mental and emotional architecture of her upcoming EP, Mirrors and Smoke (out April 17). We discuss: The Internal Battle: The reality of being your own producer and learning when to "separate" from the work. Creative Focus: How Nicole channels the chaos of an ADHD brain into technical precision and vulnerable songwriting. The Soul of a Cover: How she finds the emotional core in her viral loops of bands like New Found Glory and My Chemical Romance. Full Circle Moments: Looking back on opening for Blondie and performing at Vans Warped Tour. The "Gray Area": The inspiration behind her new single, "Just A Friend," and the frustration of emotional limbo. Stream the new single "Just A Friend" now and pre-save the EP Mirrors and Smoke below. __ Connect with Nicole Alexis: Pre-save the EP: https://ffm.to/e1oyagd Instagram: @nicolealexismusic Official Site: nicolealexis.fanflowy.co __ Follow Jrodconcerts: Web: Jrodconcertsmedia.com Instagram: @jrodconcertsmedia YouTube: Jrodconcerts The Podcast __ Support the show: DoorDash: When life happens, get a little order delivered with DoorDash. Visit ⁠https://doordash.com⁠ today Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Can you imagine if you started having contractions while on the podcast?" Singer-songwriter Katie Frank returns to the show for her second appearance, and let’s just say she’s "dropping" a lot more than just hit singles. As she prepares for the arrival of her first child, Katie joins Jrod to discuss the release of her sharp, satirical new single "Bro Country" and the upcoming tracks "Borrowed Trouble" and "No Hard Feelings." In this episode, we pull back the curtain on Katie’s brilliant, layered comedic sensibility—which Jrod describes as the Arrested Development of music videos. We talk about the "Bluth-style" takedown of industry caricatures, her transition from the Nashville hustle back to life in Pennsylvania, and why the old fears of balancing a music career with motherhood are finally being dismantled by artists like her and Maggie Rose. It’s an honest, hilarious, and high-stakes conversation about what happens when your career is hitting a high note just as this baby is coming quick! __ Inside the Episode: The Satire of "Bro Country": Deconstructing the visual gags and the "Her?" moments in her latest video. The Baby Watch: Life in the final stretch of pregnancy and the reality of "The babies before the baby." Leaving Nashville: Why the move to PA happened and how it’s changed her perspective. Artist vs. Motherhood: Breaking the stigma of being a successful touring artist with a newborn. New Music Preview: A look at the upcoming tracks Borrowed Trouble and No Hard Feelings. Connect with Katie Frank: Instagram: @KatieFrankMusic Website: katiefrankmusic.com ___ Connect with Jrodconcerts Media: Website: jrodconcertsmedia.com Newsletter: Join the Jrodconcerts community for weekly music updates. ___ Support the show: DoorDash: When life happens, get a little order delivered with DoorDash. Visit https://doordash.com today Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Canadian singer-songwriter Adam Wendler joins the podcast to share one of the most fascinating journeys in modern music. From the shores of Lake Huron to the streets of Germany—where he spent years honing his craft as a busker—Adam has now found a "seamless fit" in the heart of Nashville. In this episode, we go behind the scenes of his 2022 album Motions and its 2023 raw counterpart, Motions (Acoustic). Adam also breaks down the lightning-in-a-bottle moment of co-writing the global smash "Austin (Boots Stop Workin')" and how he transitioned from his first band, Fermented Oranges, to becoming a multi-platinum songwriter. Beyond the hits, we discuss the emotional lessons he carries from his late father, the grit required to start a career busking, and how he knows a melody is "the one" when he’s humming into a voice memo. Stay Ahead of the Curve: Join The Vanguard, our weekly newsletter. Every Friday, I send you 5 new songs you need to hear. Sign up at: jrodconcertsmedia.com __ Support The Show: Cheerios: Try Cheerios Protein! https://www.cheerios.com/shop-protein-bundle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to say "no" to legendary producers like Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis when you're only eighteen years old? Today, Jamie Rodriguez sits down with the incomparable Rissi Palmer to discuss a career defined by honesty, independence, and a commitment to her "lived experience. Fresh off the release of her "Perspectives" EP and a celebratory performance at the Grand Ole Opry, Rissi opens up about her evolution from her groundbreaking 2007 debut to her current role as a vital advocate for change. We dive into the bluegrass influences on her new music, the strength of the "Old Black Southern Women" who raised her, and how she’s rewriting country music history for the next generation through her upcoming children’s book, Color Me Country. In This Episode: The Sonic Shift: Why Bluegrass and Roots influences allowed Rissi to express herself more freely than ever before on her new EP. Resilience & Legacy: A deep dive into "Old Black Southern Woman" and the wisdom passed down through generations. The Power of "No": Rissi reveals why she walked away from a major "urban" deal as a teenager to stay true to her country roots. Rewriting History: A look at her upcoming children’s book (Coming May 2026) and the importance of representation in roots music. The Global Lens: Insights from Belfast on how the international community views equity and inclusion in music. Artistic Perseverance: The most important lesson 2026 Rissi would share with the Rissi Palmer who was first charting in 2007. Resources & Links: Pre-Order the "Color Me Country" Book (Amazon) Follow Rissi Palmer: @RissiPalmerMusic Jrodconcerts Media: @jrodconcertsmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to go from being a shy singer in Ohio to a viral powerhouse with over 200 million streams? This week, Jamie sits down with maryjo to discuss her incredible journey from TikTok breakthrough to reclaiming her narrative as a fully independent artist. Fresh off her return to the American Idol stage and currently on the road with Alex Sampson, maryjo pulls back the curtain on the "artist's life." We dive into the grit required to manage the business side of music, her secrets for maintaining a world-class vocal range on tour, and the emotional weight of her hit song, "Living Room." Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a music fan, maryjo’s perspective on courage, stage fright, and creative legacy is a must-listen. In this episode, we discuss: The Independent Pivot: Why maryjo chose to leave the major label system and lean into her own soulful sound. Touring Realities: Staying healthy on the road and the importance of connecting with fans face-to-face. The Business Mindset: How her time in business school shaped her approach to a music career. Vulnerability & Vision: The stories behind her new single "No More Heart To Break" and her viral duet with Benson Boone. __ On the Road with Jrodconcerts Media: Stay tuned to the feed! Jrodconcerts is heading to Florida for the Okeechobee Music Festival (March 19-22) and Napa Valley for Live in the Vineyard this April. Follow us for exclusive on-the-ground coverage. Follow maryjo: Instagram & TikTok: @maryjo.young Connect with us: Instagram: @jrodconcertsmedia Web: jrodconcertsmedia.com __ Support The Show: Cheerios: Try Cheerios Protein! https://www.cheerios.com/shop-protein-bundle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rooster Walk is officially the #1 music festival in the region. After years of being a "top contender," the Martinsville, VA mainstay recently took home the top prize in the 2026 Best of the Blue Ridge Awards. In this episode, Jrod sits down with Executive Producer Johnny Buck for an inside look at the 16th annual festival (May 21–24, 2026). They discuss the festival’s moving origin story, its commitment to the Martinsville community, and the challenge of keeping independent festivals accessible in an era of skyrocketing production costs and "stadium displacement." Whether you’re a long-time "Rooster" or a first-timer, this preview explores why this festival—built on the legacy of childhood friends Edwin and Walker—continues to be a home for artists like Maggie Rose, Paul McDonald, and Moon Taxi. In this episode, we cover: The Victory Lap: What the "Best Music Festival" win means for the festival’s 16th year. Festival Value vs. Stadium Shows: Why communal experiences are winning out over $500 stadium seats. The 2026 Lineup: Insights into headliners St. Paul & The Broken Bones, moe., and Daniel Donato, plus favorites like Shadowgrass and our friends Maggie Rose and Paul McDonald. Pinch-Me Moments: Memories of Billy Strings, Marcus King, and Emmylou Harris. Legacy & Scholarship: How the festival continues to give back through the Penn-Shank Memorial Scholarship Fund. Links & Resources: Get Tickets https://www.roosterwalk.com Follow Rooster Walk: @roosterwalk Follow Jrodconcerts: @jrodconcertsmedia Official Website: https://www.jrodconcertsmedia.com __ Cheerios: Try Cheerios Protein! https://www.cheerios.com/shop-protein-bundle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Jrodconcerts The Podcast, Jamie sits down with Nashville’s indie-pop sensations Jake & Shelby. From their shared roots in Hendersonville to gaining over a million followers and the attention of superstars like Michael Bublé, their journey feels like a "one in a million" miracle. We go behind the viral moments to discuss the duo's debut album, Learning To Love, and the soul-baring story behind their single, "Morning Light." Shelby opens up for the first time about her personal history in the foster care system, the "uncomfortable" necessity of vulnerable songwriting, and how music has served as a gentle tool for healing her inner child. Inside the Episode: The Long Odds: How two kids from the same hometown beat the statistics to build a global music career. Songwriting as a Superpower: Why being "shy" is actually an advantage when looking within for lyrics. The Viral Shift: Navigating the transition from social media snippets to being named one of NPR Music’s best new albums. Backstage Moments: The story of singing with Michael Bublé at Bridgestone Arena. The Ryman Dream: Their ultimate goal for the future of their live show and the message they want listeners to take away. Support a Great Cause: A portion of the streaming proceeds from "Morning Light" is donated to the Cape Cod Foster Closet. Stream the track now to help support children in the foster care system. What’s Coming in March: Stay tuned to Jrodconcerts! Next month, we’re heading to Florida for Okeechobee Music Festival and staying busy in Nashville for CRS (Country Radio Seminar). Connect with the Artists: Instagram/TikTok: @jakeandshelbyofficial Website: https://jakeandshelby.com/ Follow Jrodconcerts: Instagram: @jrodconcertsmedia Web: www.jrodconcertsmedia.com __ Support The Show: Cheerios: Try Cheerios Protein! https://www.cheerios.com/shop-protein-bundle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Choosing love ain’t love, unless the choosing is free." What happens when an artist stops caring about the "industry machine" and starts caring only about the truth? Today, we sit down with 2-time JUNO and 17-time CCMA Award winner Tenille Townes to discuss the most transformative chapter of her career yet. Last time Tenille was on the show, we were navigating the beautiful chaos of Bonnaroo 2022. Four years later, the "Nashville production" has been stripped away, leaving a raw, empathetic songwriter who isn't afraid to let the "hero complex" shake. In this episode, we dive deep into her 2026 evolution: The Independence Declaration: Moving from the major label system to becoming the CEO of her own vision. "Enabling": A breakdown of her devastating new single and the thin line between compassion and self-erasure. The "Dolly Moment": Why Tenille’s current pivot mirrors the legendary independence of Dolly Parton and Joni Mitchell. Kintsukuroi: Learning from the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery—and why we are more beautiful for our cracks. The Living Room Tour: Why she’s trading "band walls" for the vulnerability of a girl and a guitar. From Whispers to Symphonies: Preparing for her upcoming run with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. Tenille isn't just an observer of other people's pain anymore; she’s turning the lens inward. This is a conversation about boundaries, accountability, and the courage it takes to stop rescuing others so you can finally rescue yourself. CONNECT WITH TENILLE TOWNES New Single: "Enabling" (Out Now) Tour Dates: 2026 Canadian Tour & Texas dates with Muscadine Bloodline Instagram: @tenilletownes JOIN THE JRODCONCERTS COMMUNITY Instagram: @jrodconcertsmedia Web: jrodconcertsmedia.com Support: If you love the show, please leave us a 5-star review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! ___ Cheerios: Try Cheerios Protein! https://www.cheerios.com/shop-protein-bundle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been five years since Aviva Mongillo (formerly known as CARYS) last sat down with Jamie. In that time, she’s gone from a viral pop explosion to a radical artistic rebirth. In this episode, we deconstruct the journey of an artist who chose to walk away from the major label machine to find her own voice. Fresh off her role as Dori in the Netflix series Bet, Aviva opens up about the "recovering people pleaser" themes in her new music, the reality of being a CEO of her own independent career, and why she’s finally comfortable being "emotionally wide open" like the legends who came before her Inside the episode: The Name Shift: Why she’s stepping out from the "CARYS" moniker to embrace Aviva Mongillo. Radical Independence: The scariest and most rewarding parts of leaving a major label. The "Drama Queen" Era: Reclaiming labels and setting boundaries through her 2025 project. Acting vs. Artistry: How her high-stakes role in Netflix's Bet fuels her songwriting. The Joni Mitchell Influence: Comparing her current trajectory to the "confessional" legends of the 70s. Connect with Jrodconcerts: Instagram: @jrodconcertsmedia Web: jrodconcertsmedia.com Support the show: Rate and Review on Apple Podcasts! Connect with Aviva: Instagram: @carysofficial Listen: Drama Queen is available on all streaming platforms. __ Try Cheerios Protein! https://www.cheerios.com/shop-protein-bundle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we are bringing you a very special reunion and our final broadcast from this year's festival coverage. We taped this conversation a few weeks ago on-site at the 30A Songwriters Festival, and it serves as the perfect conclusion to our 2026 series from the coast. Five years ago, Judy Blank joined us for the milestone Episode #100. Today, she returns to the show as a global powerhouse with a brand-new perspective and a massive 2025 record. Judy recently released her latest album, Big Mood—a project defined by bold "weird sounds" and a fearless commitment to her craft. In this deep dive, we explore her journey from a comfortable life in the Netherlands to the "strong pull" that brought her to her current home in Austin, Texas. Jamie and Judy sit down to discuss the realities of the American Dream, the emotional cost of leaving family behind, and how she maintains her fierce artistic independence in an ever-changing industry. The Price of Change: The emotional reality of leaving your roots in the Netherlands to chase an international calling. Austin State of Mind: How moving to the "Live Music Capital of the World" has reshaped the way she hears her own music. The Idea of America: An honest look at the last 2.5 years in the States—balancing the beauty of the "American Dream" with the heartbreaking realities of global events Cultural Roots: Why Hispanic culture continues to inspire Judy’s art and creative spirit. Staying Independent: How to navigate label life and rising popularity without losing your artistic soul. Connect with Judy Blank: Listen to 'Big Mood': Available on all streaming platforms. Instagram: @judyblankmusic Connect with Jrodconcerts Media: Website: jrodconcertsmedia.com Instagram: @jrodconcertsmedia __ Support The Show: Cheerios: Try Cheerios Protein! https://www.cheerios.com/shop-protein-bundle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Sometimes, playing for 70,000 people is easier than playing for 50.” Live from the 2026 30A Songwriters Festival in South Walton, Florida, Jaime sits down with the husband-and-wife Americana powerhouse, Goldpine (Kassie and Ben Wilson). In this episode, we go behind the scenes of their journey—from the massive scale of performing the National Anthem at Arrowhead Stadium to the intimate, high-stakes environment of Nashville’s listening rooms. Ben and Kassie open up about the evolution of their sound and the making of their latest album, Three, exploring how their individual voices have fused into a singular, unmistakable "blend." Inside the episode: The Big Stage vs. The Intimate Room: Why performing for a stadium (and Taylor Swift!) carries a different kind of pressure than a quiet room of 50. The Power of Three: The numerology and creative shift that makes their third studio album their most authentic yet. Marriage & Music: A raw look at how they resolve creative friction and manage the blueprint of a duo partnership without letting it spill over into their personal life. The Artist’s Ego: Navigating the "dichotomy of the artist"—balancing necessary self-promotion with the desire to stay selfless and grounded. Lightning Round: Getting to know the personalities behind the harmonies. Featured Track: "Understand" by Goldpine __ Connect with Goldpine: Web: goldpinemusic.com IG: @goldpinemusic Connect with Jrodconcerts Media: Web: jrodconcertsmedia.com IG: @jrodconcertsmedia Support the Show: If you enjoyed this deep dive into the Americana scene, please rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify __ Cheerios: Try Cheerios Protein! https://www.cheerios.com/shop-protein-bundle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are back home in Nashville! After a whirlwind week in Los Angeles, Jrod is back in the studio to deconstruct a 2026 Grammy Awards cycle that felt like a tectonic shift for the industry. Before the glitz of the Crypto.com Arena and the Peacock Theater, we head to the historic Troubadour for the Americanafest Pre-Grammy Salute to the Songs of Neil Young. We break down the magic of seeing an all-star lineup with many friends of the show—including Rhiannon Giddens, Margo Price, I’m With Her, Sierra Hull, and Molly Tuttle—honor a legend while supporting the Americana Music Association and MusiCares. A special thank you to Jed Hilly, Jackie Marushka, and David Chamberlain for an unforgettable night of community and craft. The Hardware & The History We dive deep into the major categories Album of the Year: Why Bad Bunny’s historic win for Debí Tirar Más Fotos is the "final brick in the wall" for global Latin dominance. Record of the Year: Kendrick Lamar & SZA’s "luther"—analyzing Kendrick’s path to becoming the most-decorated rapper in Grammy history. Song of the Year: Billie Eilish’s "Wildflower"—is she the new blueprint for the Academy? Best New Artist: Why Olivia Dean was the "product of bravery" the industry needed. The Genre Deep Dive From Zach Top’s win in the inaugural Best Traditional Country Album category to The Cure’s long-overdue flowers in Alternative, we cover the wins that actually move the needle for music fans. Plus, thoughts on the standout tributes to D'Angelo and Ozzy Osbourne. Stay loud, stay kind, and thanks for the support. __ Support the show: Try Cheerios Protein! https://www.cheerios.com/shop-protein-bundle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices