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Mike and Bryan take a trip through Bryan’s long career from a family band on Church Sundays, to amazing collaborations, up to the band-stand with Hot Rize, into the studio, and as a music educator. We get to listen to Bryan’s personally selected cuts from his latest passion project ‘From Roots to Branches (Vol. 1). Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Bryan Sutton From Roots to Branches (Vol. 1) Hot Rize Brooklyn’s own Kevin Greer, our latest Wernick Coach!   Upcoming Events of Note: IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: Note: All songs feature Bryan Sutton, the notes reflect the duet partner ‘Three Star Hornpipe’ –  with Kenny Smith ‘Road to Columbus’ – with Cody Kilby ‘Working Man Blues’ – with Doc Watson ‘The Devil Went Down to Deep Gap’ – with Billy Strings ‘Port Tobacco’ – with Chris Eldridge Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

What does it take to create the next generation of bluegrass music? Meet Brett Morris, Executive Director of Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM) and learn about their efforts to engage kids across Appalachia with traditional music, dance and culture. She is also a member of the mountain music trio The Blue Ridge Girls, and we get to learn about the band and listen so some of their music. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Junior Appalachian Musicians Brett Morris Martha Spencer Earl Scruggs Music Festival   Upcoming Events of Note: IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: Music in this episode is from The Blue Ridge Girls album “Mountain Heartbeats” ‘Belle of the Ball’ ‘Blue Ridge Mountain Bound’ ‘Mystery’ ‘Can’t Get to Memphis’ ‘It All Comes Out in the Wash’ Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

Liz gets to know Chris and Taylor Malpass, the Country / Gospel brother band whose love for traditional country music started almost as soon as they could walk. They share stories about growing up singing together, the heroes who shaped their sound, the special chemistry behind their brother harmonies, and why sharp suits are all part of the package! Plus, hear about their new recordings, their old-school TV variety show, and the festival they now call their own. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode You can find The Malpass Brothers on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and FaceBook The Malpass Brothers Show   Upcoming Events of Note: Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warwick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: Music in this episode is from the brothers’ “Satisfied: Country Gospel Classics Live” album: Satisfied Family Bible Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

Time for another Jam Talk. Mike and Liz dive into what it takes to make everyone feel included and respected in the jam circle … and how to avoid creating an exclusive or unapproachable jam.  And … have you ever listened to one of our interviews and thought “I wish they had asked …”? Well, drop a line (click below) and we’ll try to include your questions in the future. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Bluegrass Jams Near Me The Granite Church “I Wish You Had Asked …” email Upcoming Events of Note: Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: “Slow Rolling Train” – J.M. Clifford “Big Ball in Brooklyn” – Damn Tall Buildings Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

Stephen Mougin shares insights into his multi-faceted, award-winning career with Mike. Performing artist, record company executive, lauded music producer, SiriusXM host, music educator – he spans a wide swath of the music industry and we attempt to cover it all. Then, banjo player and friend of the show Hilary Hawke updates us on her latest exploits and her show at Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival.  Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Stephen Mougin Dark Shadow Recording Sam Bush Hilary Hawke Upcoming Events of Note: Hilary Hawke House Concert – September 18th @ Hop Bottom PA Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival – September 19th – 20th @ Georgetown CT Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: “There’s No Reason To” – Stephan and Jana Mougin, to be released 9/25/26 “I’m Gonna Ride” – Stephen Mougin Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

Liz catches up with her friend and fellow banjo picker Urs von Arx, now back home in Zurich after 21 years in New York City. Urs shares what he loved about the NYC jam scene, how it compares with bluegrass in Switzerland, and the remarkable story of his 57 years playing with the Country Ramblers. He also takes us inside the Swiss Bluegrass Music Association, where he now serves as co-president, and talks about the challenge of bringing a new generation into the music. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Urs von Arx The Country Ramblers Bear on Banjo YouTube Playlist Swiss Bluegrass Music Association Calendar Upcoming Events of Note: Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival – September 19th – 20th @ Georgetown CT Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: “Dixie Breakdown” – Urs von Arx & The Country Ramblers  “Huckleberry Hornpipe” – Urs von Arx & The Country Ramblers Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

Festival Alert! We have a new festival in the area! Festival Co-Producer Austin Scelzo chats with Mike about this brand-new festival – Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival (September 19th and 20th) at The Granite, a wonderful music venue in Fairfield CT. Take a walk with Mike and Austin through what’s going on and what to expect. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Planet Granite Music & Art Festival Austin Scelzo Hilary Hawke Chris Luquette The Slide Stops Music in this Episode: ‘Slow Rolling Train’ – J.M. Clifford ‘Cherokee Shuffle’ – The Biscuit Eaters Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors - Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN             We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com follow @bluegrassbklyn

Liz talks with singer, songwriter, fiddler, and educator Farayi Malek about her musical journey from childhood fiddle contests to years of studying jazz—and now back to her American roots. Farayi shares fascinating insights into the connections between blues, jazz, bluegrass, and country music, and challenges us to think differently about the voice as an improvisational instrument. Plus, Liz puts your Dolly Parton knowledge to the test! Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Farayi American Roots Music Program @ Berklee College Earl Jam 2 Dolly Parton Upcoming Events of Note: Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival – September 19th & 20Th @ Georgetown CT Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Music in this Episode: Mom and Dad’s Waltz – Farayi & Tony Trischka I Will Always Love You – Dolly Parton Prayer for the People – Farayi & The Steel Drivers Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

For five weeks in the Summer - and now some weekends in the Fall – the Blue Ridge Mountains at Warren Wilson College come alive with music, dance, and the joy of learning at The Swannanoa Gathering. Mike and Kevin Kehrberg, Director of The Swannanoa Gathering, discuss the special magic of The Gathering that combines music education, culture, community and a deep connection to the roots of our favorite music. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode The Swannanoa Gathering Warren Wilson College Kevin Kehrberg Ron Pen Erynn Marshall Upcoming Events of Note: Weekend Workshop – Old Time String Band September 26th – 27th @ Warren Wilson College Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: ‘Swannanoa Tunnel’ – Bryan Sutton ‘Swannanoa Waltz’ – Rayna Gellert Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

Liz talks with Marcel Ardans, the man behind ‘Lessons with Marcel’, about his unexpected journey from aspiring high school music teacher to successful bluegrass educator on YouTube. They dig into his practical—and reassuring!—ideas about practicing, teaching, and becoming a better musician, plus his newest adventure: co-directing a documentary exploring the fascinating world of competitive flatpicking. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Marcel Ardans ‘Lessons with Marcel’ YouTube channel Andy Hatfield’s ‘Turkey in the Straw’ Marcel’s lesson on ‘Turkey in the Straw’ Alan Shad’s ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Upcoming Events of Note: Earl Scruggs Music Festival – September 4th to 6th @ Mill Spring NC – We are Podcast In Residence Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Music in this Episode: Music is found on Marcel’s “Traitor” album California Pencil Pusher Tell us Earl’s Impact on You …. Click here to schedule time with Mike Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

Mike learns all about ReString Appalachia – an organization dedicated to getting quality instruments back in the hands of those who lost them due to natural and economic disasters. Executive Director Nicholas Edward Williams traces ReString’s history from September 2024 when Hurricane Helene devastated Appalachia to today. We also get to meet and hear the music of Pickers Anonymous, Nick’s band. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Nicholas Edward Williams ReString Appalachia Pickers Anonymous Guitar Center Foundation American Songcatcher Podcast Upcoming Events of Note: Earl Scruggs Music Festival – September 4th to 6th @ Mill Spring NC Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Music in this Episode: All music is from Pickers Anonymous’ album “Patchwork” Policeman Cotton Mill Girls Hand Me Down My Walkin’ Cane Railroad Bill Wildwood Flower We are Podcast in Residence at Earl Scruggs Music Festival 2026 Tell us Earl’s Impact on You …. Click here to schedule time with Mike Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

Another amazing Grey Fox story! Mike caught up with Reggie Guillaume – better known as Guitar 5000 – at Grey Fox where Reggie shared his vision and musical mission. This YouTube sensation asks random strangers a simple question – “Will you sing a song with me?”. An inspiring discussion filled with joy, hope, and musical bravery. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Guitaro 5000 Reggie’s YouTube Channel Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival Upcoming Events of Note: Swamp in the City Mini-Festival – September 29th @ Jalopy Theatre, Brooklyn Earl Scruggs Music Festival – September 4th to 6th @ Mill Spring NC – We are Podcast In Residence Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Music in this Episode: ‘Cherokee Shuffle’ – The Biscuit Eaters ‘You’ll Never Know’ – Reggie and Sandra Tell us Earl’s Impact on You …. Click here to schedule time with Mike Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

Mike sits with Dobro legend Jerry Douglas and they go deep into all aspects of Jerry’s career, the bands he leads, the music he loves, his approach to learning and teaching, and much more. So much more that we had to break this epic exploration into two segments … here you have Part 1, and the rest will be published in a future episode. Also, Mike shares some hot tips and recent news about Peghead Nation … and a way for you to try their courses for free! Enjoy. Mentioned in this Episode Jerry Douglas The Earls of Leicester Flatt & Scruggs and the Foggy Mountain Boys The Country Gentlemen Vince Gill Alison Krauss James Taylor Bryan Sutton Upcoming Events of Note: Swamp in the City Mini-Festival – September 29th @ Jalopy Theatre, Brooklyn Earl Scruggs Music Festival – September 4th to 6th @ Mill Spring NC – We are Podcast In Residence Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Music in this Episode: “Some Old Day” – Jerry Douglas & The Earls of Leicester “Choctaw Hayride” – Alison Krauss & Union Station, with Jerry Douglas Tell us Earl’s Impact on You …. Click here to schedule time with Mike Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

Liz talks with Tashi and Kaj Litch, winners of the 2026 Telluride Band Contest, about growing up immersed in music on a tiny Washington island and turning a childhood bluegrass dream into reality. They share how family, festivals, mentors, and a little brotherly rivalry shaped their musical path—and how they’re now finding their own sound somewhere between tradition and innovation. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode The Litch Brothers Telluride Bluegrass Upcoming Events of Note: Silver Bay Wernick Method Camp – August 24th – 28th @ Silver Bay NY Earl Scruggs Music Festival – September 4th to 6th @ Mill Spring NC Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Music in this Episode: ‘Where’d You Go My Friend?’ – The Litch Brothers ‘June’ – The Litch Brothers Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected], [email protected] visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn

Liz sits down with bluegrass legend Laurie Lewis for a wide-ranging conversation about the music she’s loved and played for more than 50 years. What makes bluegrass “bluegrass”? Do drums belong in our msuic? Why is picking valued more than singing? And how has the experience of women in bluegrass changed? Laurie also talks about her new album Oh California, her songwriting, and what it feels like to finally make peace with being called a “Legend.” Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Laurie Lewis The Ashokan Center Upcoming Events of Note: Silver Bay Wernick Method Camp – August 24th – 28th @ Silver Bay NY Earl Scruggs Music Festival – September 4th to 6th @ Mill Spring NC Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Music in this Episode: All music is from the album “O California!” by Laurie Lewis & The Right Hands ‘O California!’ ‘Wheel of Life’ Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact [email protected] / [email protected] / visit bluegrassblyn.com  / follow @bluegrassbklyn