In this episode, Blake sits down with legendary singer-songwriter Mary Gauthier for a deep, honest, and surprisingly gear-heavy chat. Mary didn’t pick up songwriting seriously until her mid-thirties—after years as a Boston-based chef, restaurant owner, and, as she puts it, a total mess. But once she got sober and started hitting open mics, everything changed.

They talk about her early love for Taylor guitars, her eventual obsession with the low-end growl of vintage Gibsons, and how she’s more about tone that serves the song than flashy technique. Mary shares the story behind her breakout song “I Drink,” explains why emotion always trumps complexity, and offers a masterclass in the art of getting doors to open in Nashville—even if you have to sneak in through a window.

You’ll also hear:

The connection between fear and fog (and how to burn both off)

What it's like to share a stage with John Prine, Emmylou Harris, and Lucinda Williams

Why you should never underestimate the power of a good crust (yes, pizza crust)

A crash course in humility, persistence, and the power of being kind

This one’s a gem. If you're a songwriter, storyteller, or just trying to figure out your path—hit play.

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