Advertise on podcast: Mixtape Hope

We introduce Mr. James Juneau. A generational New Orleans native, James arrives to share both wisdom and his musical prowess. James shares his journey through finding the violin and working at his craft daily. Less of a “hobby” but rather a discipline, he notes that playing violin has awakened an ability to “clear the clutter” in the mind…which we all need.  James shares the familial impact of hearing his mother and father playing musical instruments, aunts and especially, his grandfather.  The nostalgia and emotions fill the space in this studio session.  We are all in a better space after listening to James as he offers lessons to his future self as well as his shared love of the Beatles with his grandfather.  Listen in, this is a young talent shows us what a peaceful, beautiful instrument of healing the violin is.   Special thanks to James’ instructor, who clearly has impacted this young musician’s journey. Catherine Matushek  https://lpomusic.com/musician-profiles/catherine-matushek

How much can you hold?  20 years’ worth of memories?  What would you do if there were lyrics to express what we, as native New Orleanians, have lived for the past 20 years…after Katrina. Listen in. We sit with the phenomenal Amanda Shaw as she shares stories, dreams and her mission to bring JOY through her talented voice and fiddle! She encourages us to sit back, kick off our shoes and be AT HOME wherever we are are-knowing that we belong, that we are seen and that we must keep constant vigil over where the universe needs us to be.  A very timely interview as we knock on the door reminding us of what we all GAINED in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina-strength and emotional resilience.  Amanda Shaw-her charm, her passion, her genuine presence will fill your heart as you listen to this beautiful artist.  She LIVES her music-the songs of the bayou, Cajun music that you can’t wash from your soul!  A songwriter, vocalist, fiddle phenomenon, entrepreneur and more-she is a treasure to the industry of life. Firmly established in the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame, and with her sights on more in Nashville, her energy is unmatched!  She shares her journey with the brilliant Emmy and Oscar nominated musician, songwriter and producer, Kent Wells.  Sit back, learn and laugh with us as we pretend it’s a “Louisiana Saturday Night” with THE Amanda Shaw-because we are STILL HERE- “After Katrina”.    https://www.amandashaw.com/home

MUSICIANS ON CALL truly lives its purpose.  Having touched the lives of over 1.2 million patients, they continue to want to do more. In 1999, Co-Founders and entrepreneurs, Michael Solomon and Vivek J. Tiwary, decided to prescribe healing through music. This episode sparks conversation about the importance of community and the power of compassion through composition.  Their Vision: "A world filled with the healing power of music".  It can truly be that simple.  As we ALL navigate the healthcare systems, caregiver support and our personal prescriptions for wellness, MUSICIANS ON CALL brings people together in a way that is truly INTENTIONAL and HEARTFELT. HOPE, LOVE, GRATITUDE, FORGIVENESS, CHARITY, PRESENCE. These aren't just words.  As well, they are more than ideas woven together within the lyrics and melodies we share in song. They should be part of our mission statement as stewards in service to others. Special thanks to Melinda Lafollette, Director of PR & Events, Musicians on Call.  We were humbled to have Teresita Bible and Chris Eschete (https://brotherchrismusic.com/) THANK YOU TO ALL the volunteers who give SO much more than their time and talent, they leave a piece of heartfelt HOPE with us and the many patients (and healthcare workers and families) they have served.  MUSICIANS ON CALL needs more people like you! https://www.musiciansoncall.org/

Navigating our "origin stories"  while finding those along this path who compliment the journey is a creative endeavor in and of itself. Trusting the process of musical production and the "business" of music is eloquently shared by Thea Aksland and Nelson Capote. Thea Aksland is a DYNAMIC young artist who has found that compliment in Nelson Capote. Capote is a prolific multi-instrumental musician, producer, innovator and  visionary.  Thea is a talented vocalist, songwriter, pianist, producer and teacher. Emerging in 2020 with her debut Love Line to her latest release eleMENTAL (co-produced by Capote), she is exploding with authentic emotional energy. As a certified music educator, Thea encourages her young students and inspires them to push beyond the fear- amalgamating emotion and memory into music. Thea is truly innovative, her genre evoking a much needed authenticity, making you lean in and TRULY feel. Nelson reminds us to surrender in the creative journey. Nelson has worked with artists such as Grace Gardener, providing much of the instrumentation for both of her acclaimed EP's Peach and Recovery Mile and easily explores a wide range of instruments from horns to strings and so much more. Nelson's tenure in production and recording is obvious when you listen to his music. His "style" is fueled by infusing creative experimentation and attention to detail. The destination of musical presence can only be experienced by listening to these very prolific artists. https://www.instagram.com/theaakslandmusic/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/nelsonncapote/?hl=en

KELLEY GIROD A native of Louisiana, Girod has lived in NYC since 2005 where she completed her Masters in playwriting at Columbia University.  Since graduating she has established herself in NYC as a playwright and producer.  Girod is currently Director of New Work at the world famous Apollo theater.  In addition Kelley continues to serve as Executive Director of OBIE award winning The Fire This Time Festival, a platform for early career Black playwrights, which she founded in 2009.  Girod is also an award-winning playwright whose work has been developed/presented at Atlantic Theater Company, Sheen Center for Thought and Culture, Stanford’s TAPS Program, The Fire This Time Festival,  Harlem 9, Primary Stages, Sundance, Planet Connections Theater Festival,  Parity Productions, The Apollo and more. In 2023, she was named the recipient of New York Innovative Theater’s prestigious Ellen Steward Award.  She was also a 2020 nominee of the prestigious Paul Robeson Award. In addition, Girod is Editor of The Fire This Time Festival’s first anthology of plays published with Bloomsbury UK/Methuen Drama titled “25 Plays from The Fire This Time Festival, A Decade of Recognition, Resistance, Rebirth and Black Theater.” ANDREW BLOCK (Director) An award-winning NYC-based director, proud native of New Orleans,  and frequent collaborator with fellow Louisiana-grown artist, playwright Kelley Nicole Girod (Body of Water, This Stretch of Montpelier).  He is the recipient of the Ovation and L.A.Drama Critics Circle awards for Best Director & Production for the world premiere of John Pollono’s Small Engine Repair. Sselected credits include: Adam Szymkowicz’ Clown Bar 2 (SparkPlug Productions) Mark Jason Williams’ Straight Faced Lies and The Other Day (Theatre at 14th St Y); John Pollonos's Lost and Found (FringeNYC Encore, Lucille Lortel Theatre); Sondheim's Company (Gallery Players); David Caudle’s Downward Facing Debbie (World premiere, Project Y); Why Bother? (Best Director, Planet Connections Festivity); Adam Rapp’s Bingo With the Indians (GLAAD award nomination for Outstanding Theatre); Illuminati (Best Director, Network OAF); Bedroom Farce (FAPC); Reach (Ivy Theatre); Avenue Q (Manhattan College); Inherit the Wind (Manhattan College); Rumors (AADA); The Shape of Things (Adelphi University); Recovery (FringeNYC); Andrew also serves as TDF's liaison and representative to NYC's vibrant Off and Off-Off Broadway community. SCOTT FETTERMAN is a multimedia designer, video producer, technician, and performer; he currently holds the position of Lead Audiovisual Technician at BAM Fisher in Brooklyn, NY and is a proud member of IATSE Local 4. A product of NYC’s downtown experimental scene, Scott cut his teeth working with Temporary Distortion from 2011-2017 in several capacities; most notably as Video Designer, Assistant Installation Designer, and Musician for the 6-hour-long installation-based performance My Voice Has An Echo In It, which toured within the US and France. Other key collaborations include Oscar-nominated filmmaker Josh Fox (The Truth Has Changed, Staying Home, and The Edge of Nature), One Year Lease Theater Company (Pool No Water and Skin Tight), and director Andrew Block (too many to list)

"It all begins at home" Wise words from the man, musician, and mentor in our community. Also known as "Sir Devon Nooner" from The Molly Ringwalds, Jeff Lane sits with us to share his origin story-where it all began. His genuine reflection of the power of music in shaping who and how we love, the peace we all hope for, and of course, his journey into rock 'n' roll will touch your heart! His stage presence is apparent even in studio as he shares the newest release "Because It's Christmas Time" by The Molly Ringwalds. As the lyrics go "singing songs of hope beneath the sun", this promises to be a new favorite holiday track! Lending his talent to the new local reality series, "Drive-by Karaoke, New Orleans", Jeff and his co-hosts will be judging local and dynamic talent here in and around the Greater New Orleans area! Singers and dancers compete at various iconic locations  as viewers watch weekly to see who will come out on top! Now streaming on social media and YouTube, it is a MUST SEE.  As always, thank you Jeff for reminding us, at CHRISTMAS TIME how important the MUSIC is and how special HOME is! https://www.drivebyekaraoke.com https://www.themollyringwalds.com/the-band

From Cleveland to the Crescent City...Conner McCready brings a unique vision, style and talent to his music and art! His energy in performing, love of learning, and tenacity in teaching music is inspiring! It is rare to sit someone who can navigate the SCIENCE and the WHY of music so eloquently. His depth of musical knowledge makes it easy to see what continues to motivate his passion and gift of music. A multi instrumentalist AND producer,  Conner McCready is ready and able to take his creativity to any stage... Check him out and listen in as we are educated by this brilliant artist.  https://www.connermccready.com

It was “just a feeling” that brought this Pennsylvania native to New Orleans and this city is blessed to have kept her! On the  heels of her latest album “Fever Dreams”  (2023), Shawan Rice is on fire! Her calm exudes wisdom  and musically she  is talented well beyond her years. Her music will hold you, inspire you and teach you.  She is a poet, a scholar, a producer, vocalist and all around genuinely beautiful soul. She shares what brought her here, why she stayed and even delivers powerful messages on life, literature and more!! We are so honored to sit with Ms. Shawan Rice on this episode! Check her out not only locally in New Orleans but worldwide! https://shawanmusic.com/

Believe. Believe in something and you will often find your purpose. Chuck Credo IV does just that. The legendary musician, songwriter, producer, entertainer, podcaster, manager and community leader believes in MUSIC and the city that raised him. We sit down with Mr. Credo IV and enjoy the stories and the fuel that has sparked his passion for supporting other artists and entertainers even as he keeps a very solid schedule as the lead of the band we all know and love- The Mixed Nuts. As well, listen in as he shares his NEW SOLO project with us. A true honor to connect with him in studio! https://www.wcaentertainment.com http://www.chuckcredo.com

When Veronica and Victoria Corcoran hit the sand, the ACE they delivery is the strength of will and  determination in "doing the work" it takes to become champions. The AVP (Association of Volleyball Professionals) lit up the sand here in New Orleans this past April. We were able to catch up with The Corcoran twins as they shared stories of times during their phenomenal college career here at UNO, the community that still welcomes them and the LOVE of each other and family who played a huge role in their journey.  Moving to a playlist that both grounds them and motivates them, they echo the mantra that MUSIC IS HEALING-even through injuries! Get closer to the net as we sit down with these amazing athletes and humans.  Their fierce talent is only paralleled by their genuine and beautiful authenticity.  Let's Geaux! Special THANK YOU to the AVP, Coaches Lauren Levy and  Robert Reichert Jr and the entire OCSM Sports Performance Team

SEASON 4! "LOCAL LOVE" GRATITUDE as we welcome another season of storytellers and artists being REAL.  As we  continue to learn, music truly unites us all! It inspires HOPE in ways that no other prescription can. We say "thank you" to those who have sat with us, those who have given their time and love as we look forward to sharing more with YOU! Turn up the volume and adjust the speakers as we bring you another season of MIXTAPE HOPE! We are looking forward to highlighting guests with ties to New Orleans and who move to the beat that only a local can know.  Prescribing VIBES- Drs. Dre & Luis Espinoza

We had the opportunity to interview internacional award winning musician Sol Pereyra. An accomplished musician, artist, and director, Sol brings her passion for life and laughter to our Mixtape Hope episode while in Argentina preparing for the launch of her sixth album entitled 'La Pelicula'. She splits her time living between Argentina and Mexico City, Mexico and is always on the move spreading her message of hope and love.  Since the age of ten, Sol started singing and playing music.  Her goal is for her music to bring joy and energy that unites us all.   Sol has a deep appreciation for folk music, classic rock, jazz and latin rhythms.  While in studio, she is able to blend ALL these influences to produce her “World Beat” music that beats strong and fast like her energetic heart.  Come join us as we discover the sound and talents of a beautiful star called ‘Sol’!

David Shaw takes some time out of the busy life of music, songwriting, producing, performing, preparing for a tour and much more to just BE in the NOW.  His career with The Revivalists  as well as a solo album released in 2020-2021 has been a journey which continues to inspire and motivate!  Making New Orleans his home, David continues to plant seeds reflecting his passion for music, creativity, self care, family, friendships and most of all-giving back to his community.  Seeing The Revivalists live is epic -and truly unforgettable!  Thank you David for your time, teaching and energy!  You are a gift of art and soul to the world!  https://www.davidshaw.com https://www.therevivalists.com  Facebook.com/bigrivergetdown

From his days of having a “hall pass” to play with Dr. Lorraine Wilson as a child to bringing LIFE and MUSIC to Preservation Hall, Mr. Louis Ford embodies so much of “What it Means to Love New Orleans”. He shares with us what it meant to sit next to THE legendary Mr. Clarence Ford (his father) and play and record music-while realizing his genetic calling to serve this profession. Mr. Ford teaches, and performs with such passion. Listen in and learn about “The 3rd floor of Charity Hospital” and what that still conjures in his soul. Hear how his proximity to the “Greats” of Jazz Music like Fats Domino, Mr. Charlie Gabriel and many more propelled him to remain here-in New Orleans--while still traveling and sharing this gift of music all over the world. We thank Mr. Louis Ford, Preservation Hall and ALL the musicians for their fostering of this LOVE OF JAZZ in the next generation with the “Kids in the Hall” program. He also, along with Jazz Foundation of America, helps our older community and family members remember the life that music can evoke. We are NEVER TOO OLD to fall in love with music, our city and each other-one note at a time…   https://lessons.preshallfoundation.org https://fordmusicproductions.com https://www.preshallfoundation.org https://jazzfoundation.org

As the lyrics go… “Joy will come in the morning, listen y’all”…  There is a longing for both peace and understanding when we step into the diagnosis of dementia.  We are joined by Ms. Veronica  Calliet as she so candidly does what she does best…teaches. She shares with us her experience as a caregiver for someone suffering with dementia. She has focused her light throughout her life personally and professionally on HEALING.  She speaks of “cracking the code” of this diagnosis.  She shares a unique approach  in  how music, touch and visual healing come together to reignite life and purpose in those with dementia.  She finds JOY in her role as a mother, nurse, daughter, caregiver, friend and healer. Listen y’all!