What does it really take to build a career in country music?

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, Deb is joined by co-host Gage Briney for an inspiring conversation with rising country artist Chandler Flint. From writing songs and performing at just seven years old to sharing the stage with some of the biggest names in country music, Chandler's journey is a testament to hard work, passion, and staying true to yourself.

In this episode, Chandler shares how she first fell in love with music, the experiences that shaped her as an artist, the inspirations behind her songwriting, and what it's like performing alongside artists like Carrie Underwood, Lee Brice, Brooks & Dunn, Zac Brown Band, Old Dominion, Dan + Shay, Jordan Davis, Chris Janson, and more. She also talks about her recent performances at major festivals, touring experiences, and what's next as she continues making her mark in country music.

If you love discovering talented artists before they become household names, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 

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Happy Hour with Deb
Real Talk. Big Feelings. Country Soul.
New episodes weekly — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube

 🔗 Follow us everywhere: @happyhourwithdeb
 📬 For guest inquiries or collaborations: [email protected]

In this episode, Deb sits down with country artist and songwriter CJ Garton, a sixth-generation Oklahoma rancher whose life and music are deeply rooted in authentic country traditions. CJ shares his journey from growing up on his family's historic cattle ranch to building a successful career in Nashville, where he has written songs for legendary artists including Tanya Tucker, David Alan Coe, Struggle Jennings, Whey Jennings, and Daryl Singletary.

The conversation explores CJ's passion for preserving traditional country music, the inspiration behind launching his own record label, G-Bar Records, and the unforgettable 700-mile horseback journey he took with his 13-year-old son from Tennessee to Oklahoma. Along the way, they discuss the stories, people, and experiences that reinforced CJ's belief that authentic country music still has a place in today's world.

CJ also shares behind-the-scenes stories from his music career, life as a rancher, songwriting, Nashville, and what's next as he prepares to release new music. If you enjoy honest conversations, inspiring journeys, and a love for real country music, you won't want to miss this episode.

If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and turn on notifications so you never miss a new episode of Happy Hour with Deb. New episodes premiere every Thursday.

Follow Happy Hour with Deb on social media for behind-the-scenes content, exclusive clips, and upcoming guest announcements. 

Support the show

Happy Hour with Deb
Real Talk. Big Feelings. Country Soul.
New episodes weekly — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube

 🔗 Follow us everywhere: @happyhourwithdeb
 📬 For guest inquiries or collaborations: [email protected]

 This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we're joined by global multi-platinum recording artist Austin Mahone, alongside co-host Adysen Malek, for an unforgettable conversation about his incredible journey from viral teenage sensation to one of music's most recognizable artists.

Austin opens up about what it was really like becoming famous at such a young age after his YouTube videos exploded online, the challenges that came with growing up in the spotlight, and how those experiences shaped the artist he is today. We also talk about his move to Nashville, rediscovering his country roots, meeting some of his biggest musical idols, and how his love for country music has influenced this exciting new chapter of his career.

From touring with some of the biggest names in music to creating music that feels more authentic than ever, Austin shares where he's headed next, what's inspiring him today, and his plans for the year ahead. Whether you've been following him since the beginning or are just discovering his music, this episode offers an honest, fun, and inspiring look at the person behind the hits.

Be sure to like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your favorite moment from the episode! 

Support the show

Happy Hour with Deb
Real Talk. Big Feelings. Country Soul.
New episodes weekly — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube

 🔗 Follow us everywhere: @happyhourwithdeb
 📬 For guest inquiries or collaborations: [email protected]

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we're joined by rising country artist Hope Blanchard, alongside co-host Adysen Malek, for a heartfelt conversation about chasing dreams, finding love, and staying true to yourself in Nashville.

Hope shares her incredible journey of spending six years living out of a van while pursuing a career in music, proving that passion and perseverance can take you farther than comfort ever could. We also talk about her life in Nashville, meeting the love of her life, Mitch, and the inspiration behind her powerful new single. From songwriting and sacrifice to love, resilience, and embracing every chapter of the journey, this episode is full of honest conversations and unforgettable moments.

If you love hearing the real stories behind the artists and the music, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Be sure to like, subscribe, and let us know your favorite moment from the conversation in the comments below!

#countrymusic #countrymusicartist #nashville #podcast #happyhourwithdeb 

Support the show

Happy Hour with Deb
Real Talk. Big Feelings. Country Soul.
New episodes weekly — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube

 🔗 Follow us everywhere: @happyhourwithdeb
 📬 For guest inquiries or collaborations: [email protected]

 This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we're joined by country music artist J Edwards, alongside co-hosts Holdyn Barder and Timmy McKeever, for an authentic conversation about his journey through Nashville and the road that led him to country music. Raised in a musical family that traveled across the country performing from a young age, J shares how those early experiences shaped his passion for songwriting, performing, and creating music that stays true to who he is.

We dive into life as an independent artist, the realities of touring, the importance of staying original in today's music industry, and how artificial intelligence is changing the creative landscape. J also shares his perspective on authenticity, building a career with faith and perseverance, and why genuine artistry will always matter. Whether you're an aspiring musician, a country music fan, or someone chasing a dream of your own, this episode is packed with honest conversation, great stories, and plenty of inspiration.

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your favorite moment from the episode!

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your favorite moment from the episode! 

Support the show

Happy Hour with Deb
Real Talk. Big Feelings. Country Soul.
New episodes weekly — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube

 🔗 Follow us everywhere: @happyhourwithdeb
 📬 For guest inquiries or collaborations: [email protected]

 This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we're joined by viral creator, entertainer, and social media sensation Gage Briney, alongside co-host Emily Brooke, for a fun-filled conversation packed with laughs, stories, and good vibes.

With more than 200 million views across social media and a rapidly growing audience, Gage has become one of the internet's most recognizable personalities. From viral videos and comedy content to his hit podcast Blackout Besties and viral single Baja Blasted, Gage shares how he built his career, navigated the world of social media, and found success while staying true to himself.

We also dive into life in Nashville, content creation, building an audience, memorable career moments, and why authenticity continues to be his greatest strength.

This episode is full of energy, laughter, and the kind of conversation that reminds you not to take life too seriously. 

Support the show

Happy Hour with Deb
Real Talk. Big Feelings. Country Soul.
New episodes weekly — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube

 🔗 Follow us everywhere: @happyhourwithdeb
 📬 For guest inquiries or collaborations: [email protected]

 This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we're joined by rising artist
Castle Greene alongside co-hosts Timmy McKeever and Holdyn Barder
for a fun and inspiring conversation about chasing dreams in Nashville.

Castle shares her journey from Fresno, California to Nashville, how she first got started writing songs, and what it's like building a career as an independent artist. We also talk about performing on stage, developing her alternative/cinematic pop sound, and working on her upcoming EP.

Beyond music, Castle opens up about the creative side of her life — from styling people at a boutique to finding inspiration in everyday moments. With her unique perspective and passion for storytelling, this episode is packed with insight, laughs, and motivation for anyone pursuing a creative path. 

Support the show

Happy Hour with Deb
Real Talk. Big Feelings. Country Soul.
New episodes weekly — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube

 🔗 Follow us everywhere: @happyhourwithdeb
 📬 For guest inquiries or collaborations: [email protected]

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we're joined by Laura Linda alongside co-host Adysen Malek for an inspiring conversation about second chances, perseverance, and following your dreams.

Known as Texas Music Royalty, Laura Linda shares her incredible journey from opening for artists like Pam Tillis, Brad Paisley, and David Allen Coe, to stepping away from the spotlight and eventually making the bold decision to return to country music and pursue her dreams once again.

We talk about her journey back to the industry, building a career in Nashville, why this is such an exciting time for women in country music, and the importance of realizing that if you're going to chase your dreams, the best time to start is now.

This episode is packed with inspiration, laughter, and proof that it's never too late to pursue what sets your soul on fire. 

Support the show

Happy Hour with Deb
Real Talk. Big Feelings. Country Soul.
New episodes weekly — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube

 🔗 Follow us everywhere: @happyhourwithdeb
 📬 For guest inquiries or collaborations: [email protected]

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, Deb and co-host Emily Brooke sit down with Calvin Savio for a conversation about his journey into music, life in Nashville, and the experiences that helped shape his sound.

Calvin opens up about getting started as an artist, navigating the music industry at a young age, and his plans and goals for 2026. Known for blending emotional storytelling with melodic, high-energy vibes, Calvin is quickly creating a lane all his own in today’s music scene.

If you love authentic conversations about music, growth, and chasing dreams, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

Support the show

Happy Hour with Deb
Real Talk. Big Feelings. Country Soul.
New episodes weekly — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube

 🔗 Follow us everywhere: @happyhourwithdeb
 📬 For guest inquiries or collaborations: [email protected]

 This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we sit down with rising artist 615 Exclusive, alongside co-hosts Holdyn Barder and Aliyah Orawsky, for a real and inspiring conversation about music, life, and purpose. 

Born Jamarius De’shawn Williams, 615 Exclusive shares his journey from being an independent artist writing songs at just 17 years old to building momentum in the music industry with millions of streams across platforms. We talk about his growth as an artist in Nashville, his creative process, and what drives him to keep pushing forward.

The conversation also dives into a more personal side of life — including fatherhood, balancing responsibilities, and staying focused while chasing big dreams.

With honesty, ambition, and a unique perspective on music and life, this episode is packed with meaningful moments and great energy from start to finish. 

#countrymusic #countrymusicartist #nashville #podcast #happyhourwithdeb 

Support the show

Happy Hour with Deb
Real Talk. Big Feelings. Country Soul.
New episodes weekly — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube

 🔗 Follow us everywhere: @happyhourwithdeb
 📬 For guest inquiries or collaborations: [email protected]