Is Breakfast Included?

This week, Bernie chops it up with fellow guitar tech Eric Hillman, who shares stories from his years on the road with bands like 311, Sublime, Korn, and System of a Down. Eric shares how he got his start in teching, his early influences, and the challenges of adapting to different touring environments. They explore the behind-the-scenes grind of touring, from line checks and wireless rigs to crew...

This week, Bernie sits down with stage tech Luke Cohen for a conversation about his 30-year journey on the road with artists like Duran Duran and Jamiroquai. Luke shares how a deep love for music, a few fortunate breaks, and a relentless work ethic shaped his touring career. He opens up about the challenges he’s faced and the strong sense of community that keeps him going. Luke reflects on how sta...

This week, Bernie sits down with singer-songwriter Rob Baird to explore his musical journey from Memphis to Austin and a career spanning nearly two decades. They reminisce about their first meeting, the early days of Rob’s songwriting, and how his sound has evolved over the years. Rob offers a behind-the-scenes look at his upcoming live album, recorded at Bozeman’s  Live From the Divide , and disc...

This week, we sit down with musician, actor, and entrepreneur Evan Seinfeld. Evan shares his powerful transformation from Biohazard frontman and  Oz  actor to founder of Mantorship, a global men’s wellness movement. He opens up about overcoming addiction, personal loss, and finding purpose through brotherhood and mindfulness. He discusses how Mantorship is helping men face life’s toughest challeng...

In this episode, Bernie sits down with monitor engineer Charles “Chopper” Bradley. Chopper discusses his journey from growing up in Dewsbury to mixing sound for legendary acts like Duran Duran, Annie Lennox, UB40, and Harry Styles. He shares stories of early mentors, lucky breaks, and the reality of life on the road. Chopper offers insights into the technical challenges of monitor mixing, the evol...

In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Drew Stone and photographer Gregory Rudolph Smith, aka Rudy, to uncover the story behind  London 77: The Lost Archive . Rudy shares how he unintentionally became a documentarian of London’s emerging punk scene in 1977 while trying to get his life back on track. Armed with a camera and an outsider’s perspective, he captured powerful images of icons like A...

In this episode, we talk with Shy Swartz, an instrument repair technician based in Cincinnati, whose expertise spans guitars, amps, pedals, and vintage electronics. Shy shares how she got her start by fixing her own gear as a teenager and discusses her passion for making technical knowledge accessible through social media. She opens up about navigating the industry, confronting bias, and staying g...

This week Bernie sits down with Tim DeLaughter to talk about the origins of Tripping Daisy, their explosive rise in the ‘90s Dallas music scene, and the unexpected return of the band. Tim discusses the band’s upcoming tour, new album, and how a spontaneous onstage moment reminded him why he loved the band in the first place. He opens up about the impact of losing Wes Berggren and Chris Penn, and h...

This week, we sit down with Michael Alago—legendary A&R executive, photographer, and subject of the critically acclaimed documentary  Who the Fuck Is That Guy?! The Fabulous Journey of Michael Alago . Michael joins us to share the wild, inspiring story of his life in music—from signing Metallica and White Zombie to working with Nina Simone and becoming a celebrated photographer. He reflects on...

This week we chat with Cynthia St. Aubin about her evolution from executive assistant to bestselling author of genre-blending fiction. We explore the influence of her neurodivergence, the real-life inspirations behind her characters, and the upcoming re-release of her Tales from the Alpha Art Gallery series. Cynthia also opens up about creativity, activism, and finding balance in a world that does...

In this episode, Bernie catches up with punk rock pioneer Javier Escovedo to talk about his musical roots, his influential work with The Zeros, and his journey as a solo artist. They dive into the early LA and San Francisco punk scenes, the challenges and triumphs of being a Chicano musician, and Javier’s deep love for rock & roll. Javier opens up about his personal struggles, his family dynam...

This week, we’re joined by Christopher Holt — a Dallas-based musician with both high-profile sideman gigs as well as an exciting solo career. Chris discusses his musical journey, from teaching himself guitar to becoming a guitarist for the Eagles. He opens up about rediscovering his solo voice through his new album  Across the Milky Way  (released May 9, 2025), and we dig into the creative process...

In this episode, we chat with Lyric Noel and Russell Hollar of the Lyric Noel project about their musical roots, their unique creative partnership, and the evolution of their sound. They share the story behind their single “Metamorphosis,” discuss how mental health and personal loss influence their art, and reflect on building a loyal audience through social media. From pop influences to heavy met...

In this episode, Bernie talks with Ernie Moreno, a Denton-based artist and founder of Tattoo My Shoes. Ernie creates vibrant, hand-drawn artwork on shoes, transforming each pair into a one-of-a-kind piece. He shares how his background in tech and tattooing led to a passion project that became a unique business. From comic cons to personal commissions, each pair of shoes tells a story through his d...

This week we sit down with guitarist and frontman Patrick Kennison. Patrick discusses his journey from forming Union Underground to playing with Lita Ford and leading his own band, Heaven Below. He shares stories about growing up in San Antonio’s heavy metal scene, the influence of mentors like Dick Wagner, and navigating the highs and lows of the music industry. Patrick also opens up about his cr...

This week we chop it up with filmmaker, musician, and host of  The New York Hardcore Chronicles Live , Drew Stone. Drew shares stories from his upbringing in New York City, his immersion in the early hardcore punk scene, and how that culture shaped his filmmaking. He talks about his documentaries like  The New York Hardcore Chronicles  and  Who the F ** Is That Guy?, and gives us a look at his cur...

In this week’s episode, Gavin Friday joins us for a raw conversation about music, politics, and the power of art to disrupt. From his punk roots with the Virgin Prunes to creating  Ecce Homo , a fiery and cinematic new album, Gavin opens up about navigating decades of creative reinvention. He shares behind-the-scenes stories about working with U2, scoring emotionally intense films, and what it mea...

This week we sit down with Katy Krassner, the social media director for Duran Duran and co-host of Whooosh! with Simon Le Bon. Katy shares how her childhood love for entertainment led to a career that took her from Long Island to backstage. She gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to manage the band’s digital presence, from creating engaging content and handling fan interactions to h...

In this episode, Bernie sits down with Frank Falbo, CEO and founder of Falbo Guitars, to explore his journey as an innovator in the guitar industry. Frank shares his early passion for guitars, his work developing groundbreaking pickups, and his experience as Steve Stevens’ guitar tech. He delves into the evolution of electric and acoustic guitar design, the science of achieving the perfect tone, a...

This week Bernie and Lisa sit down with multi-platinum producer David Prater, best known for his work with Dream Theater, Firehouse, and Night Ranger. David takes us through his journey from being a drummer in Santana to producing some of rock’s most iconic albums. He shares behind-the-scenes stories about working with Dream Theater on  Images and Words , the challenges of production, and the impa...

To kick off our fifth season, Bernie and Lisa sit down with Adam Clayton, bassist of U2. Adam shares insights on his latest project,  Ballroom Blitz , a docuseries exploring the rich history of Irish show bands. He reflects on the evolution of the music industry and the lessons he’s learned from decades in the business. Beyond the stage, he opens up about his passions for visual arts, fashion, and...

In this episode, Bernie sits down with Kin Faux—Rico Gonzalez, Jakey Black, Avery Castro, and Adam Carrillo—to discuss their journey in the Texas country/red dirt music scene. They share how the band came together, the sacrifices they’ve made, and how their current lineup has elevated their sound. We discuss their relentless work ethic, deep connection with fans, and the surprising break that came...

This week, Bernie chats with Frank Jasper, best known for his role as Brian Shute in the cult classic  Vision Quest , as the film approaches its 40th anniversary. Frank reflects on the film’s lasting impact, its legendary soundtrack, and its enduring legacy. He also talks about reconnecting with the wrestling community and his transition into holistic health. Whether you’re a longtime fan or disco...

This week we chat with veteran guitar tech Jimmy Bomann about his journey from playing in bands to working behind the scenes for legendary artists like The Go-Go’s, Lou Reed, and Peter Frampton. Jimmy opens up about the highs and lows of touring life, some of the lessons he learned as a tech, and how the industry has changed over the years. Plus, we talk about his love for comic books and what’s c...

In this episode, we sit down with guitarist, orchestrator, and educator Ella Rae Feingold to discuss her musical journey, from growing up immersed in soul and funk to touring with artists like Erykah Badu. Ella opens up about her experience as a trans woman in the music industry, the challenges of touring, and how she evolved into orchestration for film and video games. We talk gear, influences, a...