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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!