Dropped Among This Crowd

This week, we’re welcoming some feminine energy to the mic with special guest Leah Naomi Singman — a Michigan-based musician, mother, and longtime friend of Sara J’s.

In this heartfelt and inspiring conversation, Leah opens up about navigating the male-dominated music industry, transforming life experiences into creative purpose, and what we hope our children learn by watching us chase our dreams. We dive into the beauty of live music communities, her deep love for music, and the magical presence of her grandmother’s piano — shipped all the way from Argentina — that sat quietly in the living room throughout her childhood.

Leah shares the surprising influence of the legendary Argentine hippie band Sui Generis, and how a Carole King cartoon musical left a lasting impression. From writing her first song at age eight, to picking up a guitar for the first time at Shabbat dinner, not allowing a janky guitar from a flea market to discourage her and learning classical guitar — her musical journey is as unconventional as it is inspiring.

With her debut album set to release this November, Leah talks about the creative process, the serendipitous way she met her producer, and the multi-instrumentalist collaborators bringing her songs to life.

🎶 Song featured in the episode: “Be Here Now”

More from this week's guest:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahnaomimusic?igsh=MW5ra3owZHhiZnYxag==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leah.singman

Donate to DATC Media Company: https://datcmediacompany.com/support

Give the gift of Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Datcmediacompany/gift

The DATC Media Podcast Family: https://datcmediacompany.com/podcasts

Want to be a guest on the show? https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-a-guest-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Want to be a RoughGauge featured artist? Send an email to: [email protected]

Want to work with Sara? Book a one-on-one session to bring your music/media vision to life: https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/consulting-services-with-sara-j

Let's Collab! https://datcmediacompany.com/collab-opportunties-1

Want to hang out virtually? Join Sara and jD on Sunday nights on YouTube for Hip fan convos! https://www.youtube.com/@dewvre1974

Curious about the October 4th Toronto event? https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-celebration-of-the-hip-for-als-tickets-1137838598879?aff=oddtdtcreator

Follow DATC Media:
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https://www.facebook.com/datcmedia
https://www.instagram.com/datcmediacompany/

Follow Dropped Among This Crowd Podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/droppedamongthiscrowdpodcast/
https://www.facebook.com/droppedamongthiscrowd/
Email: [email protected]
Book a conversation on "Dropped among this Crowd": https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Follow Sara J:
https://www.facebook.com/sara.till41/
https://www.instagram.com/sarajachimiak/

This week on the show Sara J. is joined by musician and podcast host Mark Hopkins for a wide-ranging conversation that’s equal parts heartfelt, hilarious, and deeply human.

They dive into everything — from the power of music and raw emotion to time itself, ghost stories from Salem, UFOs, and beyond.

Mark shares how hearing Pearl Jam’s Ten for the first time changed the trajectory of his life, the early influence of his siblings’ eclectic music tastes, and the unwavering support of his father. A lifelong student of music, he reflects on the Baltimore music scene, playing with past guest Dan Wallace, and the endless joy of falling down music’s rabbit holes, taking the things he loves along the way and adding his finger print to create his own musical "mad libs"

They talk creativity’s highs and lows, releasing three new songs in 2025, and the importance of pouring into yourself — including workouts (because yes, Sara loves her workouts).

From interviewing Pearl Jam’s first drummer to working remotely for Berklee College of Music while raising his daughter, Mark opens up about life, art, and staying connected to your 15-year-old self, even when you’re “adulting.”

Plus: his podcast At Home with Mark (Sara will be a live guest on Oct 28 at 6pm ET!), the magic of meeting your heroes, and why music lovers are all just a little bit like Swifties.

More from this week's guest: https://linktr.ee/Markhopkinsmusic?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafQn7eUUTvuENftgU0gyBd8FB9xHD_D1J_ht2BcjYvKOTub1JnNBwtOJmR4mA_aem_aYJ3m08maMAIKlHuq7FYsg

Falling Branch Farm Brewery Pumpkin Fest October 4th: https://www.fallingbranch.beer/events-calendar-1

Donate to DATC Media Company: https://datcmediacompany.com/support

Give the gift of Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Datcmediacompany/gift

The DATC Media Podcast Family: https://datcmediacompany.com/podcasts

Want to be a guest on the show? https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-a-guest-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Want to be a RoughGauge featured artist? Send an email to: [email protected]

Want to work with Sara? Book a one-on-one session to bring your music/media vision to life: https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/consulting-services-with-sara-j

Let's Collab! https://datcmediacompany.com/collab-opportunties-1

Want to hang out virtually? Join Sara and jD on Sunday nights on YouTube for Hip fan convos! https://www.youtube.com/@dewvre1974

Curious about the October 4th Toronto event? https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-celebration-of-the-hip-for-als-tickets-1137838598879?aff=oddtdtcreator

Follow DATC Media:
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Follow Dropped Among This Crowd Podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/droppedamongthiscrowdpodcast/
https://www.facebook.com/droppedamongthiscrowd/
Email: [email protected]
Book a conversation on "Dropped among this Crowd": https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Follow Sara J:
https://www.facebook.com/sara.till41/
https://www.instagram.com/sarajachimiak/

Craig is back with the final three bands on his list — and this episode gets real. We dive deep into the raw power of music, the moments that stay with us forever, and the feeling of greatness it can bring.

Craig opens up about an unforgettable experience, shares a documentary everyone should see, and reminds us why music hits the soul in ways nothing else can.

So get comfy (and maybe grab the Kleenex). It’s emotional, it’s beautiful, and the perfect way to close out this special two-part series.

More From This Week's Guest:

Gift Shop: https://www.giftshophipband.ca

Discovering Downie Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/gorddowniepod/

Introduce Yerself - Tribute Singers (Discovering Downie Bonus Episode - Craig sits down with the singers from Gift Shop (Ian) and the Almost Hip (Craig) to discuss their performances and what it's like to be in a tribute to The Hip)

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/discovering-downie/id1740810199?i=1000661217664

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1tPxzLobp7lFhwzEYNwPul?si=BN-0_ybMQUWHlHyTae3O1A

And on All Podcast Streaming Platforms

Windows '78:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0dgLSNGgttqwpkOO6DnFGs?si=p8Ypp9MXQ5aBLY0_InaEHA

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/windows-78/155673759

Canadian Alternative Playlist:

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/canadian-alternative/pl.u-DdANNBet9G60E

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6biwSrIHlYFrUuxghJja20?si=lGpBxUfSSP--d2w11vsDNA&pi=M384ATmqRFCcu

Seven Canadian Bands You Should Know Playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/00FQHAEeZcxMW9RvD3mJze?si=rWR_heCGTVWuqM91ah1Jzw&pi=l-V8Ox9WRLKF8

https://music.apple.com/ca/playlist/7-canadian-bands-you-should-know/pl.u-76oNN7MupDMvL

Find out more about the bands mentioned in this episode:

Ducks Ltd.:

18 Cigarettes live - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRbC_dpv1oI&list=RDnRbC_dpv1oI&start_radio=1

Live in Philadelphia on WXPN - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wf9ndvkvB3Y&list=RDWf9ndvkvB3Y&start_radio=1

Stars:

Your Ex-Lover is Dead (live in Manilla MUST SEE) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Sc7jwu_bgM&list=RD2Sc7jwu_bgM&start_radio=1

No One is Lost (live) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOf825EoYM8

No One is Lost (Official, but unconventional video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PehLcp7sNi0&list=RDPehLcp7sNi0&start_radio=1

Torquil Campbell: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torquil_Campbell

Spirit of the West:

John Mann (story telling example from house party) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6k_NGkJ-t0U&list=RD6k_NGkJ-t0U&start_radio=1

Spirit Unforgettable (full documentary) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLWTYWXgj_o

The Final Concert (Save This House/ Home for a Rest) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISONaayCBa8&list=RDISONaayCBa8&start_radio=1

Frankfurt, I’m Sorry (live with VSO) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prh0MxDot1U&list=RDprh0MxDot1U&start_radio=1

Canadian Skye (live) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXo8V1rwq9w

The Rites of Man (live with the proper explanation of its origin) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q428g5_39KE&list=RDq428g5_39KE&start_radio=1

Donate to DATC Media Company: https://datcmediacompany.com/support

Give the gift of Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Datcmediacompany/gift

The DATC Media Podcast Family: https://datcmediacompany.com/podcasts

Want to be a guest on the show? https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-a-guest-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Want to be a RoughGauge featured artist? Send an email to: [email protected]

Want to work with Sara? Book a one-on-one session to bring your music/media vision to life: https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/consulting-services-with-sara-j

Let's Collab! https://datcmediacompany.com/collab-opportunties-1

Want to hang out virtually? Join Sara and jD on Sunday nights on YouTube for Hip fan convos! https://www.youtube.com/@dewvre1974

Curious about the October 4th Toronto event? https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-celebration-of-the-hip-for-als-tickets-1137838598879?aff=oddtdtcreator

Follow DATC Media:
https://datcmediacompany.com
https://www.facebook.com/datcmedia
https://www.instagram.com/datcmediacompany/

Follow Dropped Among This Crowd Podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/droppedamongthiscrowdpodcast/
https://www.facebook.com/droppedamongthiscrowd/
Email: [email protected]
Book a conversation on "Dropped among this Crowd": https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Follow Sara J:
https://www.facebook.com/sara.till41/
https://www.instagram.com/sarajachimiak/

She had no notes, guys!!
Sara J. hands over the reins to returning guest Craig Rogers for a special two-part mini-series. Craig kicks things off talking a bit about the CanCon laws and what sparked this series.
From there, we dive into the first four bands on the list — and trust us, this is just the beginning.

More From This Week's Guest:

Gift Shop: https://www.giftshophipband.ca

Discovering Downie Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/gorddowniepod/

Introduce Yerself - Tribute Singers (Discovering Downie Bonus Episode - Craig sits down with the singers from Gift Shop (Ian) and the Almost Hip (Craig) to discuss their performances and what it's like to be in a tribute to The Hip)

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/discovering-downie/id1740810199?i=1000661217664

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1tPxzLobp7lFhwzEYNwPul?si=BN-0_ybMQUWHlHyTae3O1A

And on All Podcast Streaming Platforms

Windows '78:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0dgLSNGgttqwpkOO6DnFGs?si=p8Ypp9MXQ5aBLY0_InaEHA

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/windows-78/155673759

Canadian Alternative Playlist:

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/canadian-alternative/pl.u-DdANNBet9G60E

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6biwSrIHlYFrUuxghJja20?si=lGpBxUfSSP--d2w11vsDNA&pi=M384ATmqRFCcu

Seven Canadian Bands You Should Know Playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/00FQHAEeZcxMW9RvD3mJze?si=rWR_heCGTVWuqM91ah1Jzw&pi=l-V8Ox9WRLKF8

https://music.apple.com/ca/playlist/7-canadian-bands-you-should-know/pl.u-76oNN7MupDMvL

Find out more about the bands mentioned in this episode:

Hey Rosetta:

Kintsukuroi Official Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gu8HMFhITqw

Kintsukuroi Live Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MKajkDZqPY

Live at CBC Music Fest - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiHE0jvYXuk&list=RDqiHE0jvYXuk&start_radio=1

Ahead by a Century - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPTrmXvPFRU&list=RDCPTrmXvPFRU&start_radio=1

Buck 65:

Talking about working with Gord Downie - https://youtu.be/xN_CGw48nrE?si=Br7dj1CaA7fIFw41

Bandits (live) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2g2km_SQHdg&list=RD2g2km_SQHdg&start_radio=1

Rich Terfry sample playlist from Drive radio show (CBC) - https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-259-drive/clip/d20250407-monday-april-7-2025

Half Moon Run:

Live at Massey Hall - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sn4XSWao3eU&list=RDsn4XSWao3eU&start_radio=1

Razorblade live - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTblmTlhKhE&list=RDsn4XSWao3eU&index=2

Bruce Cockburn:

If I Had a Rocket Launcher - (Live) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOjHior0RfU&list=RDnOjHior0RfU&start_radio=1

If a Tree Falls - Official Video - https://youtu.be/ErS9HCh8GfE?si=i02FuzcpfBzjTCW_

Donate to DATC Media Company: https://datcmediacompany.com/support

Give the gift of Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Datcmediacompany/gift

The DATC Media Podcast Family: https://datcmediacompany.com/podcasts

Want to be a guest on the show? https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-a-guest-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Want to be a RoughGauge featured artist? Send an email to: [email protected]

Want to work with Sara? Book a one-on-one session to bring your music/media vision to life: https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/consulting-services-with-sara-j

Let's Collab! https://datcmediacompany.com/collab-opportunties-1

Want to hang out virtually? Join Sara and jD on Sunday nights on YouTube for Hip fan convos! https://www.youtube.com/@dewvre1974

Curious about the October 4th Toronto event? https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-celebration-of-the-hip-for-als-tickets-1137838598879?aff=oddtdtcreator

Follow DATC Media:
https://datcmediacompany.com
https://www.facebook.com/datcmedia
https://www.instagram.com/datcmediacompany/

Follow Dropped Among This Crowd Podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/droppedamongthiscrowdpodcast/
https://www.facebook.com/droppedamongthiscrowd/
Email: [email protected]
Book a conversation on "Dropped among this Crowd": https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Follow Sara J:
https://www.facebook.com/sara.till41/
https://www.instagram.com/sarajachimiak/

Craig brings it all home in this can’t-miss part two starting with Gift Shop—the West Coast’s ultimate tribute to The Tragically Hip. Craig shares the story of how he joined the band, what it’s like stepping into the role of Paul Langlois (right down to the gear), He also reflects on the unique experience of playing in a country where Hip tribute bands are a dime a dozen. Craig talks about the wildest, rain-soaked show they’ve ever played; the verdict is still out on if his guitar pedal survived the experience.

Craig revisits a guitar story introduced in part one and brings it full-circle—nearly three decades in the making.

Craig takes us through his deep dive process into Gord Downie’s solo catalog through his work on the Discovering Downie Podcast, how that project built a brotherhood with his cohosts and reshaped his relationship with Gord’s music.

More from this week's guest:

Gift Shop: https://www.giftshophipband.ca

Discovering Downie Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/gorddowniepod/

Introduce Yerself - Tribute Singers (Discovering Downie Bonus Episode - Craig sits down with the singers from Gift Shop (Ian) and the Almost Hip (Craig) to discuss their performances and what it's like to be in a tribute to The Hip)

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/discovering-downie/id1740810199?i=1000661217664

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1tPxzLobp7lFhwzEYNwPul?si=BN-0_ybMQUWHlHyTae3O1A

all podcast streaming platforms

Windows '78:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0dgLSNGgttqwpkOO6DnFGs?si=p8Ypp9MXQ5aBLY0_InaEHA

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/windows-78/155673759

Loaded Boards Longboard video mentioned in conversation: https://youtu.be/l7OpZ_XQzJI?si=EdWXEisd_Q-u63-P

Canadian Alternative Playlist:

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/canadian-alternative/pl.u-DdANNBet9G60E

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6biwSrIHlYFrUuxghJja20?si=lGpBxUfSSP--d2w11vsDNA&pi=M384ATmqRFCcu

Voices of Long Covid: https://voicesoflongcovid.buzzsprout.com/share

Donate to DATC Media Company: https://datcmediacompany.com/support

Give the gift of Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Datcmediacompany/gift

The DATC Media Podcast Family: https://datcmediacompany.com/podcasts

Want to be a guest on the show? https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-a-guest-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Want to be a RoughGauge featured artist? Send an email to: [email protected]

Want to work with Sara? Book a one-on-one session to bring your music/media vision to life: https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/consulting-services-with-sara-j

Let's Collab! https://datcmediacompany.com/collab-opportunties-1

Want to hang out virtually? Join Sara and jD on Sunday nights on YouTube for Hip fan convos! https://www.youtube.com/@dewvre1974

Curious about the October 4th Toronto event? https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-celebration-of-the-hip-for-als-tickets-1137838598879?aff=oddtdtcreator

Follow DATC Media:
https://datcmediacompany.com
https://www.facebook.com/datcmedia
https://www.instagram.com/datcmediacompany/

Follow Dropped Among This Crowd Podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/droppedamongthiscrowdpodcast/
https://www.facebook.com/droppedamongthiscrowd/
Email: [email protected]
Book a conversation on "Dropped among this Crowd": https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Follow Sara J:
https://www.facebook.com/sara.till41/
https://www.instagram.com/sarajachimiak/

The wait is over—Sara J finally sits down with Craig Rogers: co-host of Discovering Downie & guitarist for Gift Shop (West Coast’s ultimate tribute to The Tragically Hip)

In typical DATC Pod fashion, this chat is so good it had to be split into two parts!

In part one, Craig takes us through his musical journey (with his guitars as our guide)—from the influence of his father’s own musical career, to grade six band and playing saxophone, to picking up a guitar and being sought out to play with his favourite band. He shares the perils of touring Canada, playing side stage at Lollapalooza ’95, and his first G&L guitar.

We also dive into the music that shaped him: the album that changed everything for him, why he thinks The War on Drugs is the best live band right now, and the time he had tickets to two shows at once. Plus, Craig recalls his first encounters with The Tragically Hip, gives us a peek into his fandom and explains how Gord Downie left him unsure what to think at first.

And that’s just part one. Buckle up—we’re going deep.

More from this week's guest:

Gift Shop: https://www.giftshophipband.ca

Discovering Downie Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/gorddowniepod/

Windows '78:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0dgLSNGgttqwpkOO6DnFGs?si=p8Ypp9MXQ5aBLY0_InaEHA

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/windows-78/155673759

Loaded Boards Longboard video mentioned in conversation: https://youtu.be/l7OpZ_XQzJI?si=EdWXEisd_Q-u63-P

Canadian Alternative Playlist:

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/canadian-alternative/pl.u-DdANNBet9G60E

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6biwSrIHlYFrUuxghJja20?si=lGpBxUfSSP--d2w11vsDNA&pi=M384ATmqRFCcu

The Friendly Giant Classic Vintage Children's TV Show: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL55KQG9TdrwYW3VxnIz9cNxTvsfGCHtks&si=ICBzpFN14UpsWams

Donate to DATC Media Company: https://datcmediacompany.com/support

Give the gift of Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Datcmediacompany/gift

The DATC Media Podcast Family: https://datcmediacompany.com/podcasts

Want to be a guest on the show? https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-a-guest-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Want to be a RoughGauge featured artist? Send an email to: [email protected]

Want to work with Sara? Book a one-on-one session to bring your music/media vision to life: https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/consulting-services-with-sara-j

Let's Collab! https://datcmediacompany.com/collab-opportunties-1

Want to hang out virtually? Join Sara and jD on Sunday nights on YouTube for Hip fan convos! https://www.youtube.com/@dewvre1974

Curious about the October 4th Toronto event? https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-celebration-of-the-hip-for-als-tickets-1137838598879?aff=oddtdtcreator

Follow DATC Media:
https://datcmediacompany.com
https://www.facebook.com/datcmedia
https://www.instagram.com/datcmediacompany/

Follow Dropped Among This Crowd Podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/droppedamongthiscrowdpodcast/
https://www.facebook.com/droppedamongthiscrowd/
Email: [email protected]
Book a conversation on "Dropped among this Crowd": https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Follow Sara J:
https://www.facebook.com/sara.till41/
https://www.instagram.com/sarajachimiak/

In the final installment of Sara J's conversation with jazz saxophonist Dan Wallace, the focus shifts to his band, The 11th Hour, and their phenomenal cover of Tool's "Sober." Dan also shares his aspirations for a live album and the story of his friendship with musician Marc Shapiro, who was the catalyst for Dan's guest spot here on the show.

Dan shares his experiences in the Baltimore music scene, his college days in New Orleans, and gives props to the artists who influenced the musicians we love. He also explains why he believes Steely Dan stands the test of time (and would probably survive the apocalypse). Dan talks about his future plans, including an upcoming jazz album, before switching things up to embark on something new.

And you won't want to miss the incredible story of how he may or may not have convinced Jeff Coffin to take the gig with The Dave Matthews Band full-time back in the summer of 2008.

More from this week's guest:

Sober (Tool) Dan Wallace and the 11th Hour: https://youtu.be/dH8GQyNB3Zc?si=RCG0J9EyPkxh_Lzc

"Terms and Conditions" by Dan Wallace and the 11th Hour: https://youtu.be/gJeGfIIvPK8?si=4W8g1HVGPTiyPKqE

Dan Wallace and the 11th Hour, a playlist on SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/hSxKIkPHDHIZYXJXLX

Donate to DATC Media Company: https://datcmediacompany.com/support

Give the gift of Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Datcmediacompany/gift

The DATC Media Podcast Family: https://datcmediacompany.com/podcasts

Want to be a guest on the show? https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-a-guest-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Want to be a RoughGauge featured artist? Send an email to: [email protected]

Want to work with Sara? Book a one-on-one session to bring your music/media vision to life: https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/consulting-services-with-sara-j

Let's Collab! https://datcmediacompany.com/collab-opportunties-1

Want to hang out virtually? Join Sara and jD on Sunday nights on YouTube for Hip fan convos! https://www.youtube.com/@dewvre1974

Curious about the October 4th Toronto event? https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-celebration-of-the-hip-for-als-tickets-1137838598879?aff=oddtdtcreator

Follow DATC Media:
https://datcmediacompany.com
https://www.facebook.com/datcmedia
https://www.instagram.com/datcmediacompany/

Follow Dropped Among This Crowd Podcast:
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Email: [email protected]
Book a conversation on "Dropped among this Crowd": https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Follow Sara J:
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This week marks a very special moment here at the podcast — it’s our 300th episode 🎉 AND I just celebrated my 41st birthday on August 4th! So I had to jump into your feed with a quick bonus episode to reflect, celebrate, and say a huge heartfelt thank you.

In this mini milestone episode, I talk about:

• The wild journey from a tiny podcast to a full-blown media brand

• The growth and expansion of DATC Media over the past year

• The power of community — especially over on Patreon

• How YOU can get involved — as a guest, collaborator, or freelance photographer

• Upcoming events, conversations, and exciting things on the calendar

• Where you can find me live every Sunday at 8 PM ET on YouTube

• The October 4th event in Toronto: A Celebration of The Hip for ALS — featuring two full sets from The Strictly Hip and supporting The ALS Society of Canada 🎶💛

Donate to DATC Media Company: https://datcmediacompany.com/support

Give the gift of Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Datcmediacompany/gift

The DATC Media Podcast Family: https://datcmediacompany.com/podcasts

Call to Action:

Want to be a guest on the show? https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-a-guest-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Want to be a RoughGauge featured artist? Send an email to: [email protected]

Want to work with Sara? Book a one-on-one session to bring your music/media vision to life: https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/consulting-services-with-sara-j

Let's Collab! https://datcmediacompany.com/collab-opportunties-1

Want to hang out virtually? Join Sara and jD on Sunday nights on YouTube for Hip fan convos! https://www.youtube.com/@dewvre1974

Curious about the October 4th Toronto event? https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-celebration-of-the-hip-for-als-tickets-1137838598879?aff=oddtdtcreator

Follow DATC Media:
https://datcmediacompany.com
https://www.facebook.com/datcmedia
https://www.instagram.com/datcmediacompany/

Follow Dropped Among This Crowd Podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/droppedamongthiscrowdpodcast/
https://www.facebook.com/droppedamongthiscrowd/
Email: [email protected]
Book a conversation on "Dropped among this Crowd": https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Follow Sara J:
https://www.facebook.com/sara.till41/
https://www.instagram.com/sarajachimiak/

🎷 In this captivating first installment of another epic two-parter, host Sara J. is joined by Baltimore-area jazz saxophonist Dan Wallace for a raw, real, and wide-ranging conversation—true to Dropped Among This Crowd form.

Things leap off with Dan sharing the absolutely fascinating story of local legend Daryl Davis—a blues pianist who, through conversation and courage, convinced dozens of white supremacist leaders to denounce their ideology and leave their hate groups behind.

From there, Dan reflects on the ironic tension of being a professional musician and how it sometimes interferes with actually making music. The conversation shifts to the evolving state of outdoor festivals, the economy, and environmental factors that may threaten their future entirely in the next 5–10 years.

Sara and Dan dive into jam bands, the undeniable magic of Red Rocks (and how it’s always freezing no matter the season), and his almost-career as an opera singer. He shares how a scroll through his now-vintage iPod Classic helped him pivot fully toward jazz saxophone—and what that shift looked like.

They also go back to the beginning: Dan’s childhood love of music, his beloved piano teacher Ms. Karen, and the lasting foundation she helped build. He talks about reconnecting with his elementary music teacher—who he now performs with—and shares how an administrative error almost cost him a spot at a performing arts middle school, until his mother’s persistence saved the day.

Dan recounts joining jazz band early in 7th grade, being introduced to Charlie Parker, the mix CD that changed his life, and working his way through the Charlie Parker Omnibook.

He also opens up about his social struggles growing up—and how being involved in music and starring in school musicals gave him a sense of belonging and helped him feel like maybe he wasn’t “the biggest weirdo in the world.”

Such a thoughtful and fun conversation—you won’t want to miss it.

🎧 Tune in next week for the compelling conclusion in Part Two!

More from this week's guest:

Sober (Tool) Dan Wallace and the 11th Hour: https://youtu.be/dH8GQyNB3Zc?si=RCG0J9EyPkxh_Lzc

"Terms and Conditions" by Dan Wallace and the 11th Hour: https://youtu.be/gJeGfIIvPK8?si=4W8g1HVGPTiyPKqE

Dan Wallace and the 11th Hour, a playlist on SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/hSxKIkPHDHIZYXJXLX

Donate to DATC Media Company: https://datcmediacompany.com/support

Give the gift of Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Datcmediacompany/gift

The DATC Media Podcast Family: https://datcmediacompany.com/podcasts

Want to be a guest on the show? https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-a-guest-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Want to be a RoughGauge featured artist? Send an email to: [email protected]

Want to work with Sara? Book a one-on-one session to bring your music/media vision to life: https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/consulting-services-with-sara-j

Let's Collab! https://datcmediacompany.com/collab-opportunties-1

Want to hang out virtually? Join Sara and jD on Sunday nights on YouTube for Hip fan convos! https://www.youtube.com/@dewvre1974

Curious about the October 4th Toronto event? https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-celebration-of-the-hip-for-als-tickets-1137838598879?aff=oddtdtcreator

Follow DATC Media:
https://datcmediacompany.com
https://www.facebook.com/datcmedia
https://www.instagram.com/datcmediacompany/

Follow Dropped Among This Crowd Podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/droppedamongthiscrowdpodcast/
https://www.facebook.com/droppedamongthiscrowd/
Email: [email protected]
Book a conversation on "Dropped among this Crowd": https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Follow Sara J:
https://www.facebook.com/sara.till41/
https://www.instagram.com/sarajachimiak/

In this mid-summer solo episode, host Sara J checks in with listeners after a transformative few months both personally and professionally. She shares updates on DATC Media Company, upcoming collaborations, and exciting projects in the works—plus a little behind-the-scenes from a recent cross-border adventure.

Donate to DATC Media Company: https://datcmediacompany.com/support

Give the gift of Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Datcmediacompany/gift

The DATC Media Podcast Family: https://datcmediacompany.com/podcasts

🧭 Call to Action:

Want to be a guest on the show? https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-a-guest-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Want to be a RoughGauge featured artist? Send an email to: [email protected]

Want to work with Sara? Book a one-on-one session to bring your music/media vision to life: https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/consulting-services-with-sara-j

Let's Collab! https://datcmediacompany.com/collab-opportunties-1

Want to hang out virtually? Join Sara and jD on Sunday nights on YouTube for Hip fan convos! https://www.youtube.com/@dewvre1974

Curious about the October 4th Toronto event? https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-celebration-of-the-hip-for-als-tickets-1137838598879?aff=oddtdtcreator

Follow DATC Media:
https://datcmediacompany.com
https://www.facebook.com/datcmedia
https://www.instagram.com/datcmediacompany/

Follow Dropped Among This Crowd Podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/droppedamongthiscrowdpodcast/
https://www.facebook.com/droppedamongthiscrowd/
Email: [email protected]
Book a conversation on "Dropped among this Crowd": https://datcmediacompany.com/contact/ola/services/be-on-dropped-among-this-crowd-podcast

Follow Sara J:
https://www.facebook.com/sara.till41/
https://www.instagram.com/sarajachimiak/