
Sign up to save your podcasts
Or


Welcome back to the 78644 Podcast. This episode brings together stories from the stage at Old Settlers Music Festival to the creative spaces of Lockhart. The show opens with this year’s Youth Talent Showcase, where rising artists like Ira Thorne Clifton, Gigi Shafi, and Oliver perform original songs and talk about their creative journeys. We hear how music takes shape early, grows through family traditions, and builds communities.
The Local Tracks segment features “Behind the Green Door” by Night Beats, gritty, soulful, and echoing with garage-rock tones that pulse through the heart of Lockhart. A special shoutout to “Joe Carter”, a well-known Lockhart local, for his cameo in the Night Beats Video! Also, big thanks to “Best Little Wine & Books”. Lockhart musician and Sunflower and Friends owner Chazz Emile Bessette shares the story about making music outside industry pressures and keeping things deeply personal.
Finally, we close with painter Christopher St. Leger, who opens the door to his expressive world of visual storytelling where fury meets color and place meets memory.
Guests in This Episode:[00:00] - Youth Talent Competition Begins at Old Settlers Music Festival
[23:45] - Local Tracks: Night Beats perform “Behind the Green Door”
[31:05] - Chazz Emile Bessette on Independent Music and Local Vibes
[44:06] - Christopher St. Leger: Painting the Emotional Landscape
Steven Collins: https://www.instagram.com/deadmanonline
Wella Foods: https://www.instagram.com/wellafoods/
Thunderbird Bar: https://www.instagram.com/thunderbirdbar/
PrintingSolutionstx: https://www.instagram.com/printingsolutionstx/
Gaslight Baker Theatre: https://www.instagram.com/gaslightbaker/
Courthouse Nights: https://www.instagram.com/courthousenights/
Crystal Glaze Photography: https://www.instagram.com/crystalglazephotography/
Gray Beard Films: https://www.instagram.com/graybeardfilms/
Texas Hatters - HishatLady: https://www.instagram.com/hishatlady/
Website: https://www.78644podcast.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/78644-Podcast/100089192381124/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/78644podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@78644Podcast
Welcome back to the 78644 Podcast. This episode takes us from the fields of Brownsboro Ranch to the downtown square in Lockhart. The episode opens with a look at how a local ranching family transitioned from farming to raising Angus and eventually Wagyu cattle, and how they’ve kept their operation local, from raising the herd to processing the beef. Joe Seth Roddy and Jack Montesinos from band “The Point”, join to talk about their musical roots, influences from around the world, and their upcoming tour.
The Local Tracks segment features the track “Dave Dudley” by band Rattlesnake Milk, a trucking song with roots and rhythm that fit right into the Lockhart landscape. Chef Nathan Lemley gives us a look inside Commerce Cafe, about what he is preparing for the Lockhart Rising fire-cooking event.
🎶 The Point live at Courthouse Nights!
Join us in Courthouse Nights Lockhart on Saturday, May 16 to catch The Point performing live. See you on the square!
[00:00] - Brownsboro Ranch and Cattle history
[05:52] - Joe and Jack from “The Point” talk about their musical background
[18:57] - Local Tracks: Lockhart band Rattlesnake Milk perform their song "Dave Dudley."
[23:05] - Chef Nathan Lemley on launching Commerce Café
Steven Collins: https://www.instagram.com/deadmanonline
Wella Foods: https://www.instagram.com/wellafoods/
Thunderbird Bar: https://www.instagram.com/thunderbirdbar/
PrintingSolutionstx: https://www.instagram.com/printingsolutionstx/
Gaslight Baker Theatre: https://www.instagram.com/gaslightbaker/
Courthouse Nights: https://www.instagram.com/courthousenights/
Crystal Glaze Photography: https://www.instagram.com/crystalglazephotography/
Gray Beard Films: https://www.instagram.com/graybeardfilms/
Texas Hatters - HishatLady: https://www.instagram.com/hishatlady/
Website: https://www.78644podcast.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/78644-Podcast/100089192381124/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/78644podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@78644Podcast
Welcome back to the 78644 Podcast ! In this special Cinco De Mayo episode, the celebration of Cinco de Mayo is explored, focusing on Lockhart’s vibrant community event. Peter Brown, a Professor of Anthropology, and Todd Blomerth, Historian & Author, explain the historical significance of Cinco De Mayo, the Battle of Puebla, and its cultural impact. The episode covers the history of Cinco De Mayo, local festivities, and also focuses on Lockhart’s vibrant community celebration, local festivities, and the role of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in promoting cultural awareness and supporting local talent.
Rob Ortiz, the current chairman of the Greater Caldwell County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, joins the conversation to share his personal journey and leadership role within the organization. He talks about how the Cinco De Mayo festival has grown in Lockhart, showcasing local businesses, musical acts, and community involvement. His leadership has helped steer the chamber through tough times and into a period of growth and support for the community. The episode also features a song from Lucky Joe, performing his track "A.M.O." in the Local Tracks segment and highlights Chaparral Cantina, a new venue in Lockhart and the historical images that tie the celebration to the community’s rich heritage.
🎟️ Get ready for the Cinco de Mayo 2025 celebration in Lockhart! Join us for live performances:
[00:00] - History of Cinco De Mayo
[02:17] - Rob Ortiz talks about his path with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
[09:57] - Local Tracks: Lockhart singer Lucky Joe performs his song "A.M.O."
[15:53] - Chaparral Cantina, the new venue and its role during Cinco De Mayo.
[25:53] - Historical Images of Cinco De Mayo
Steven Collins: https://www.instagram.com/deadmanonline
Wella Foods: https://www.instagram.com/wellafoods/
Thunderbird Bar: https://www.instagram.com/thunderbirdbar/
PrintingSolutionstx: https://www.instagram.com/printingsolutionstx/
Gaslight Baker Theatre: https://www.instagram.com/gaslightbaker/
Courthouse Nights: https://www.instagram.com/courthousenights/
Crystal Glaze Photography: https://www.instagram.com/crystalglazephotography/
Gray Beard Films: https://www.instagram.com/graybeardfilms/
Texas Hatters - HishatLady: https://www.instagram.com/hishatlady/
Website: https://www.78644podcast.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/78644-Podcast/100089192381124/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/78644podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@78644Podcast
Welcome back to the 78644 Podcast! In this episode, host Steven Collins brings together three stories from across Central Texas, each rooted in music, art, and community.
We hear from country musician Ellis Bullard, who talks about his path through the Texas music scene, the meaning behind his album title, and a moment when a stolen trailer almost stopped a tour until some unexpected support came through. The episode also takes a turn into the streets of downtown Lockhart, where faded Ghost Signs still whisper stories of the past. The episode also includes an Old Settler’s Music Festival feature on the Owens Brothers, a family duo keeping Texas music traditions alive. Later in the episode, we head into the world of public art with muralist Fidencio Duran, who shares stories about his time growing up near Lockhart, his first mural inspired by Jimi Hendrix, and his latest project at the historic Neill-Cochran House Museum in Austin.The episode wraps with a performance by Ryan Quiet in the Local Tracks segment, featuring his track “Dirty Dancing Guy.”
🎟️ See Ellis Bullard Live - Don’t miss Ellis at Courthouse Nights in Lockhart on April 18, and headlining at Antone’s in Austin on August 16 with Louisiana Surf Department.
🖼️ Visit the Neill-Cochran House Museum - Explore Fidencio Duran’s mural installation telling the untold stories of early Austin. Open Wednesday–Sunday, 11 AM–4 PM
Learn more: neill-cochranhouse.org
[00:00] – Ellis Bullard on Lockhart, tour stories, and performs “Chasing Numbers”
[11:59] – Ghost signs and Lockhart’s fading downtown history
[13:18] – The Owens Brothers: A dose of Texas country with heart and harmony
[28:44] – Artist Spotlight: Fidencio Duran on art, Lockhart roots, and Neill-Cochran mural
[39:34] – Local Tracks: Ryan Quiet closes the show with his track “Dirty Dancing Guy”
🎸 Ellis Bullard: https://www.instagram.com/ellisbullardmusic/
🎶 The Owens Brothers: https://www.instagram.com/owensbrothers/
🎨 Fidencio Duran: https://www.fidencioduran.com/
Fidencio Duran: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fidencio-duran-aa207a35/
🏛️ Neill-Cochran House Museum: https://www.nchmuseum.org/
🎤 Ryan Quiet: https://www.instagram.com/ryanquiet/
Steven Collins: https://www.instagram.com/deadmanonline
Wella Foods: https://www.instagram.com/wellafoods/
Thunderbird Bar: https://www.instagram.com/thunderbirdbar/
PrintingSolutionstx: https://www.instagram.com/printingsolutionstx/
Gaslight Baker Theatre: https://www.instagram.com/gaslightbaker/
Courthouse Nights: https://www.instagram.com/courthousenights/
Crystal Glaze Photography: https://www.instagram.com/crystalglazephotography/
Gray Beard Films: https://www.instagram.com/graybeardfilms/
Texas Hatters - HishatLady: https://www.instagram.com/hishatlady/
Website: https://www.78644podcast.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/78644-Podcast/100089192381124/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/78644podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@78644Podcast
Welcome back to the 78644 Podcast! In this rich and vibrant episode, host Steven Collins brings together the awe of circus arts, the raw power of songwriting, and the heartfelt stories of Lockhart’s own youth in agriculture. We start with a nostalgic audio tour of a classic circus setup and then dive into the creative life of Xochitl Sosa, a contemporary circus artist sharing her journey from Oakland to Red Rock, from aerial feats to artistic direction.
You’ll also meet singer-songwriter Melissa Engleman, who talks about her new album Love and plays a stirring track live in-studio. Later, we get a peek into the world of local students competing in the Caldwell County Junior Livestock Show—with charming stories, helpful advice, and plenty of laughs. Music takes center stage as well, featuring Jonathan Terrell in our Local Tracks segment with his soulful song “Place Out Back.” Finally, Mesh Festival producer Matt Meshbane shares his vision for bringing music to the corners of Texas that need it most.
🎪 Don’t Miss Cirque Vida!
A night of magic, acrobatics, and unforgettable moments awaits.
Get your tickets now: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/cirquevida
🎟️Use code 78644 for a discount!
[00:00] – Episode Introduction.
[00:57] – Meet Xochitl Sosa: From aerial artist to circus director, Xochitl shares her path and passion.
[12:34] – Musical Spotlight: Melissa Engleman introduces her new album Love and performs “Say Goodbye.”
[22:30] – Caldwell County Junior Livestock Show: Celia, Nicole, Emory, and Judge Haden share highlights and insights from the local youth livestock show.
[32:45] – Local Track Feature: A live performance of "Big City Blues" by Jonathan Terrell
[37:29] – The Heart of a Festival: Matt Meshbane breaks down his journey and vision for Texas Mesh Fest.
[47:39] – Closing Credits: A thank-you to sponsors, artists, and the Lockhart community.
🎪Cirque Vida: https://www.cirquevida.com/
🎪 Xochitl Sosa: https://www.instagram.com/circus_xochitl_
🎤 Melissa Engleman: https://melissaengleman.com/
🐰 Caldwell County Junior Livestock Show: https://www.ccfaltx.com/
👨⚖️ Hoppy Haden: https://hoppyhaden.com/about-judge-haden/
🎤 Jonathan Terrell: https://www.jonathanterrellmusic.com/
🎧 Texas Mesh Fest: https://www.texasmeshfest.com/
🎧 Matt Meshbane: https://www.facebook.com/meshbane/
Steven Collins: https://www.instagram.com/deadmanonline
Wella Foods: https://www.instagram.com/wellafoods/
Thunderbird Bar: https://www.instagram.com/thunderbirdbar/
PrintingSolutionstx: https://www.instagram.com/printingsolutionstx/
Gaslight Baker Theatre: https://www.instagram.com/gaslightbaker/
Courthouse Nights: https://www.instagram.com/courthousenights/
Crystal Glaze Photography: https://www.instagram.com/crystalglazephotography/
Gray Beard Films: https://www.instagram.com/graybeardfilms/
Texas Hatters - HishatLady: https://www.instagram.com/hishatlady/
Website: https://www.78644podcast.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/78644-Podcast/100089192381124/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/78644podcast/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@78644Podcast
Welcome back to the 78644 Podcast! In this episode, host Steven Collins takes us through Lockhart’s vibrant creative scene, exploring everything from the rich traditions of Irish folk music to the deeply personal artistry of Gayla Partridge. We visit The Case Room, a one-of-a-kind space that blends history, craft, and community, with insights from owner Jenn Miori Hodges. We also highlight local music with Gravity Hotel, a Lockhart-based band led by James McMurtry, known for their post-punk and sci-fi-inspired sound on their album Forgotten Coast. Finally, we take a look at the exciting lineup for Courthouse Nights 2025 and have some fun answering quirky questions along the way!
[00:26] - Inside The Case Room with Jenn Hodges, shaping a Lockhart landmark.
[02:56] - Gayla Partridge on art, embroidery, and creativity as therapy.
[13:09] - Courthouse Nights 2025, revealing this year’s festival lineup.
[16:37] - Meet Gravity Hotel, blending sci-fi sounds with punk rock in Lockhart’s music scene.
[32:47] - In this week's Local Tracks, we’re featuring a song by James McMurtry called Forgotten Coast.
[36:37] - Lockhart’s Irish Music Scene, from barroom sessions to growing a musical community.
🏡 The Case Room – https://www.instagram.com/caseroombar
🍻 Jenn Miori Hodges – https://www.instagram.com/jennmiorihodges/
🎨 Gayla Partridge – https://www.instagram.com/embroiderybygayla/
📚 Book feature: Stitchcraft: An Embroidery Book of Simple Stitches and Peculiar Patterns
🎶 Will Rhodes – https://willrhodes.band/
🎸 Gravity Hotel – https://gravity-hotel.com/
🎶 Lockhart Arts & Craft Bar – https://www.instagram.com/lockhart_artsandcraft/
🎭 Courthouse Nights – https://www.instagram.com/courthousenights
🎤 James McMurtry: https://www.jamesmcmurtry.com/
Steven Collins: https://www.instagram.com/deadmanonline
Wella Foods: https://www.instagram.com/wellafoods/?hl=en
Thunderbird Bar: https://www.instagram.com/thunderbirdbar/
PrintingSolutionstx: https://www.instagram.com/printingsolutionstx/
Gaslight Baker: https://www.instagram.com/gaslightbaker/?hl=en
Courthouse Nights: https://www.instagram.com/courthousenights/?hl=en
Crystal Glaze Photography: https://www.instagram.com/crystalglazephotography/
Gray Beard Films: https://www.instagram.com/graybeardfilms/
HishatLady: https://www.instagram.com/hishatlady/
Website: https://www.78644podcast.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/78644-Podcast/100089192381124/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/78644podcast/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@78644Podcast
In this episode of 78644 Podcast, host Steven Collins along with his Co-host Taylor Burge takes us through a celebration of Lockhart’s creative and community spirit! We kick off the season with the Lockhart Hawks and Sandlot Baseball, featuring Shane Renfro’s song “Come on Down”, explore the Gaslight Baker Theater’s fresh take on Pride and Prejudice, and step inside the world of vintage fashion at Magic Mirror. Plus, we highlight local music with Hoyt Van Tanner and look into silent film scoring with Justin Sherburn, who reimagines The Return of Draw Egan with a new soundtrack.
Taylor Burge & Lockhart Hawks Players – Kicking off the Sandlot Baseball season.
Hoyt Van Tanner – Featured in this week’s Local Tracks segment.
Gaslight Baker Theater Cast & Crew – Discussing their bold production of Pride and Prejudice.
Natalie Ribbons from Magic Mirror – The progression of Lockhart’s beloved vintage shop.
Justin Sherburn – Composer and musician, on scoring The Return of Draw Egan at the Baker Theater.
[00:43] Episode Introduction
[01:50] The Lockhart Hawks take the field for the season opener at Wishing Well Field
[05:51] Hoyt Van Tanner’s music and his connection to Lockhart take center stage
[11:39] Gaslight Baker Theater presents a unique take on Pride and Prejudice
[19:03] Natalie shares the story behind Magic Mirror Vintage and how her shop has developed
[24:57] Justin Sherburn discusses scoring silent films and The Return of Draw Egan
⚾ Lockhart Hawks Baseball: https://www.lockharthawks.com/
🧢 The Wishing Well Field: https://www.instagram.com/thewishingwellfield/
🎭 Gaslight Baker Theater: https://mygbt.org/
🎵 Hoyt Van Tanner: https://www.instagram.com/hoytvantanner/?hl=en
✨ Magic Mirror Vintage Shop: https://www.instagram.com/magicmirrorvintage
🎶Justin Sherburn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-sherburn-477ba621
🎶Montopolis Music: https://www.montopolismusic.com/
👨🎤Shane Renfro: https://www.instagram.com/rfshannon/
Steven Collins: https://www.instagram.com/deadmanonline
Taylor Burge: https://www.instagram.com/taylorburge_
This Episode is Sponsored by:Wella Foods: https://www.instagram.com/wellafoods/?hl=en
Thunderbird Bar: https://www.instagram.com/thunderbirdbar/
PrintingSolutionstx: https://www.instagram.com/printingsolutionstx/
Gaslight Baker: https://www.instagram.com/gaslightbaker/?hl=en
Courthouse Nights: https://www.instagram.com/courthousenights/?hl=en
Crystal Glaze Photography: https://www.instagram.com/crystalglazephotography/
Gray Beard Films: https://www.instagram.com/graybeardfilms/
HishatLady: https://www.instagram.com/hishatlady/
Website: https://www.78644podcast.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/78644-Podcast/100089192381124/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/78644podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@78644Podcast
Welcome back to 78644 Podcast! In this episode host Steven Collins, takes us through a night of live music, heartfelt love stories, and the creative spirit of Lockhart. We experience the energy of Arts & Crafts Open Mic Night, hear touching “How We Met” stories, and highlight incredible local talent, including Voxtrot and Nam Joti Kaur Khalsa, with beautiful artwork displayed at the Commerce Gallery. Plus, we get an exclusive chat with Jaston Williams, the legendary co-creator of Greater Tuna, as he prepares for his Paramount Theater performance.
Ben White (Paul) & Luke Langston (Reign the Barbarian) - Local musicians sharing their open mic experiences.
Lew & Patti - Their “How We Met” love story.
Voxtrot - Featured in this week’s Local Tracks segment.
Wendy & Ray - Another heartwarming love story.
Nam Joti Kaur Khalsa - Artist spotlight on her broom-making and creative journey.
Jaston Williams - Texas theater legend on his new show High Heels and Cowboy Boots at the Paramount Theater.
[01:19] - Open Mic Night experiences with Ben White (Paul) & Luke Langston (Reign the Barbarian)
[06:04] - How We Met: Lew & Patti’s five-decade love story for Valentine’s Day
[12:49] - Local Tracks: Voxtrot’s music, influence, and Lockhart connection
[17:06] - How We Met: Wendy & Ray’s love, obstacles, and a hippie van
[23:45] - Artist Spotlight: Nam Joti Kaur Khalsa on broom-making as art & spirituality
[27:34] - Beautiful artwork of artists showcased at the Commerce Gallery
[28:45] - Jaston Williams shares stories from his latest solo show High Heels & Cowboy Boots and the colorful journey of a life in the theater
🎶 Voxtrot: https://www.instagram.com/voxtrot_atx
🎭 Paramount Theatre: https://www.instagram.com/paramountaustin/
🖼️ Get Lucky Gallery: https://www.getluckylockart.com/
🎨 Nam Joti Kaur Khalsa:
- Blue Cypress Botanicals: https://www.instagram.com/bluecypressbotanicals/
- Brooms & Baskets: https://www.broomsandbaskets.com/
This Episode is Sponsored by:Wella Foods: https://www.instagram.com/wellafoods/?hl=en
Thunderbird Bar: https://www.instagram.com/thunderbirdbar/
PrintingSolutionstx: https://www.instagram.com/printingsolutionstx/
Gaslight Baker: https://www.instagram.com/gaslightbaker/?hl=en
Courthouse Nights: https://www.instagram.com/courthousenights/?hl=en
Crystal Glaze Photography: https://www.instagram.com/crystalglazephotography/
Gray Beard Films: https://www.instagram.com/graybeardfilms/
HishatLady: https://www.instagram.com/hishatlady/
Website: https://www.78644podcast.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/78644-Podcast/100089192381124/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/78644podcast/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@78644Podcast
Welcome back to 78644 Podcast! In this episode, we jump into Lockhart’s lively scene with wrestling, live music, and community-driven events. Host Steven Collins takes us through a night of Austin Wrestling Revolution, a performance from Heavy Meddo, and back stories of the Gaslight Baker Theater’s 24-Hour Play Festival. We also feature Local Tracks: Deadman, showcasing great local music, and premiere the Mexico Lindo video and discuss the struggles musicians face in the streaming era and introduce Curios, a platform aiming to change how artists get paid.
[00:42] - Tumble in Tank Town - Austin Wrestling Revolution with Chayo Rodriguez
[08:54] - Heavy Meddo Live Performance
[14:51] - Eric Beck Interview: The Gaslight Baker Theater’s 24-Hour Play Festival
[22:24] - Mexico Lindo Song Premiere
[27:47] - The Future of Music Streaming with Gregory Keogh from Curios
Chayo Rodriguez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chayo-rodriguez-4ba8b2ab/
Gregory Keogh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregorykeogh/
Heavy Meddo: https://heavymeddo.bandcamp.com/
Curios: https://www.linkedin.com/company/curiosdotcom/
Gaslight Baker Theatre: https://mygbt.org/
This Episode is Sponsored by:Wella Foods: https://www.instagram.com/wellafoods/?hl=en
Thunderbird Bar: https://www.instagram.com/thunderbirdbar/
PrintingSolutionstx: https://www.instagram.com/printingsolutionstx/
Gaslight Baker: https://www.instagram.com/gaslightbaker/?hl=en
Courthouse Nights: https://www.instagram.com/courthousenights/?hl=en
Crystal Glaze Photography: https://www.instagram.com/crystalglazephotography/
Gray Beard Films: https://www.instagram.com/graybeardfilms/
HishatLady: https://www.instagram.com/hishatlady/
Website: https://www.78644podcast.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/78644-Podcast/100089192381124/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/78644podcast/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@78644Podcast
This episode celebrates traditions and connections in our small town, where rituals feel closer and more meaningful. Join us for an interview with retired U.S. Marine Corps captain, actor, technical advisor, and author Dale Dye; a performance by musician Jonny Burke; the Lockhart Open Studio Tour; and Thanksgiving stories from our locals. So gather around, raise a glass and don't forget to TIP THE BAND!
From the publisher's feed
Lockhart, known as the "Barbecue Capitol of Texas" is a small town south of Austin. In recent years it has become a haven for musicians, artists and the best kind of weirdos. Some were born here…
...and don't forget to tip the band!