In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I was thrilled to sit down with the incredibly talented Bronwyn Keith-Hynes.

We talked all about her Grammy-nominated vocal album "I Built a World," what it was like transitioning from being known strictly as a fiddler to stepping up as a vocalist, and the journey that led her there—including the influence of the American Roots Program at Berklee and inspirations from greats like Molly Tuttle.

Bronwyn opens up about the challenges and excitement of recording and performing her own songs, the creative process of assembling her ensemble, and how her marriage to fellow fiddler and musician Jason Carter intertwines with her career

If you’re a fan of bluegrass, live music, or just want a peek behind the scenes of the festival world, you won’t want to miss this one.

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Find Bronwyn Keith-Hynes🎤

https://www.bronwynkeithhynes.com

https://www.youtube.com/@bronwynkeith-hynes

In this episode of Music Festivals Podcast, I sit down with OJ Wilson, the heart behind the Lazy Jam Music Festivals, to get the inside story on how this unique festival has not only survived but thrived for seven years.

OJ shares how Lazy Jam started as a small gathering of friends and slowly grew into a tight-knit community—still keeping its grassroots, backyard feel with thoughtful touches like reserved camping spots and community fire pits. We talk about what it takes to maintain the beautiful land where Lazy Jam takes place, including the dedicated army of friends and family who keep everything running, plus the legacy of his late best friend Jay, whose spirit truly lingers through every detail of the festival.

We also go deep on this year’s music lineup and big upgrades—OJ walks us through the fresh new stage, some standout acts, and a few surprises he's especially excited about.

If you’re curious about what makes a smaller festival feel like home, or just want a peek into the passion that drives these gatherings, this episode has all the details. Hope to see you at Lazy Jam this September—tickets are still available!

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Music Festival Documentaries 🎟️

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Lazy Jam Festival 🏕️

https://www.facebook.com/lazyjam1

Tickets: https://bit.ly/lazy-jam-7

In this episode of Music Festivals Podcast, I’m recapping my day at Grassfire 2025, held over an epic 4th of July weekend at Nelson Ledges Quarry Park in Garrettsville, Ohio. We'll explore the truly unique and interesting vibe of the NLQP venue and share some tips on camping there for festivals. Get the low down on the spring-fed quarry lake and beach, and how to make the most of your time on these iconic Ohio music festival grounds. I break down everything from the camping setup, to the food and merch on “Shakedown Street”.

You'll meet long-time vendor Hanz (who’s inspiring new campfire guitarists), and Coach Jackie from Impactful Energy, who’s serving up both revitalizing beverages and positive vibes as a master transformation life coach. Plus, you'll catch some thoughts on the festival community from NLQP owner Evan Kelley as well as a and live intro and performance from the Del McCoury Band. Stick around for next week’s preview of the Lazy Jam 7 festival, and don’t forget to subscribe for more behind-the-scenes music festival coverage.

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Nelson Ledges Quarry Park

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Grassfire Festival 👀

https://nlqp.com/our-events/

In this episode of Music Festivals Podcast, I’m recapping a wild and muddy weekend moshing at INKcarceration 2025, the massive metal and tattoo festival at the Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio.

It was extra special this year because I got to bring my son Kaden along to rock out at his very first music festival. I break down everything you need to know before you go: from the heavy-hitting lineups featuring bands like Slipknot, Five Finger Death Punch, and Falling in Reverse, to insider tips on camping, shuttle logistics, and snagging those coveted tattoo and prison tour spots.

Trust me, you'll want to get this one, as well as other Danny Wimmer Presents music festivals on your calendar for 2026

Watch the Festival Documentary 🎥

Inside INKCARCERATION 2025 — A Music & Tattoo Festival Documentary Film 📺

https://youtu.be/srNEbRgA-14

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In this episode of Music Festivals Podcast, I sit down for a fireside chat with Jesse Iaquinto from Fireside Collective. We talk about the role that family plays both on and off the stage, Jesse’s life in Asheville, North Carolina, and what it’s like to bring his wife and young daughter along to festivals and shows. Jesse shares some heartfelt stories about musical moments with his daughter, how music lessons are evolving for her, and how the bluegrass and jam band community truly feels like a second family.

We also get into the evolution of Fireside Collective’s sound, including their transition from traditional bluegrass to exploring a wider mix of genres after adding drums to their lineup. Jesse opens up about the band’s creative process, choosing cover songs, and what it takes to reach those electrifying flow-state moments on stage—especially during festivals.

We wrap up with a look at their upcoming shows like Watermelon Pickers Festival, and the excitement around their new single, “Memphis in the Morning,” plus news of their forthcoming album.

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Find Jesse Iaquinto 👀

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesse_fireside

Find Fireside Collective 🔥

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@FiresideCollective 

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https://watermelonpickersfest.com

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I recap my trip to the 4848 Music Festival held at Snowshoe Mountain Resort in Snowshoe West Virginia to cap off my All Good Presents "Trifesta" summer road trip.

You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at this unique mountain top music festival from the perspective of the VIP volunteers who help set and maintain the positive and family friendly vibes, to the busiest guy on the mountain who keeps the event humming along. You'll see footage of the venue and accommodations as well as performances from Fireside Collective and Dark Star Orchestra.

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I recap my trip to the 4848 Music Festival held at Snowshoe Mountain Resort in Snowshoe West Virginia to cap off my All Good Presents "Trifesta" summer road trip.

You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at this unique mountain top music festival from the perspective of the VIP volunteers who help set and maintain the positive and family friendly vibes, to the busiest guy on the mountain who keeps the event humming along. You'll see footage of the venue and accommodations as well as performances from Fireside Collective and Dark Star Orchestra.

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Find 4848 Festival 🎟️

https://4848festival.com

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In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I recap my trip to Missouri for the 10th anniversary of the Pickin' on Picnic Music Festival at Lost Hill Lake.

It was my very first visit to Missouri, and this festival was packed with highlights, from a magical hickory grove venue to some of the best bluegrass and jam grass music around. I share my experiences at this incredibly well-organized event, covering everything from family-friendly activities, the unique outdoor amenities, and the big role that community and mental health initiatives play at this festival. Plus, I talk about the expansive wellness and green initiatives, standout food vendors, and the festival’s one-of-a-kind custom merch options.

The real treat of the weekend was getting to sit down for an afternoon coffee and Q&A with the legendary Del McCoury and his sons, Rob and Ronnie, where they shared stories about their music, working with Richard Thompson, and even their favorite festival moments. Del’s performance in the heat was inspiring, and seeing him command the stage at 86, in a full suit, was unforgettable. Make sure to watch for clips from their set, behind-the-scenes moments, campfire jams, and a quick word from our partner, D Law Coffee Company, headed by Drury Anderson of Mountain Grass Unit. If you love music festivals, bluegrass, or are just looking for the perfect family-friendly festival vibe, this episode’s for you!

Heyo neighbors—in this episode on the podcast I’m hanging out with Jesse Shultzaberger, the powerhouse drummer behind Larry Keel’s Electric Larryland. Jesse’s a staple in the East Coast jam and bluegrass world, and he’s got some awesome stories to tell. We dive into how he picked up the drums thanks to his dad, all the bands he’s been part of (like the Woodsheders, the Randy Thompson Band, and his own Jazz Assembly), plus what it’s like juggling life as both a touring musician and a dedicated teacher. He even gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the new Electric Larry Land album that’s in the works—there are a couple singles out now, with the full record dropping next year.

We also preview the 21st Watermelon Pickers Festival happening September 4–6 down in Berryville, Virginia, where Jesse will be taking the stage with both Electric Larry Land and the Woodsheders. Jesse shares some insider tips on the Clark County Fairgrounds (45 minutes from his house), what makes this fest such a gem, and how to get the most out of your time in Berryville.

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Find Jesse Shultzaberger

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https://www.facebook.com/JShultzabergermusic

Foundations of Drumming Book

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 @jesseshultzadrummer 

Larry Keel's Electric Larry Land

https://larrykeel.com/projects#electric-larry-land

Ginada Pinata

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The Woodshedders

https://thewoodshedders.com

Find the Watermelon Pickers Festival ⛺️

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 @SRSMProductions 

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I sit down with two true bluegrass legends—Jason Carter and Michael Cleveland—to talk about their brand new collaboration and the stories that have defined their unique journeys. We get into their deep roots in bluegrass, experiences growing up in musical families, and how Michael adapted to becoming one of the most influential fiddlers despite significant challenges with blindness and hearing loss. Jason shares memories of joining the Del McCoury Band just four years after picking up the fiddle, and both reflect on their long-standing friendship and admiration for each other’s playing.

We also discuss the making of their debut duo album "Carter & Cleveland," out in spring 2025, which features guests like Vince Gill, Jaylee Roberts, and Sam Bush. Along the way, Michael talks about the origin of his band Flamekeeper, and the two reminisce about milestones like playing the Grand Ole Opry—where Jason even got married with Michael as his best man. We wrap up with a look at their upcoming tour stops, including the Watermelon Pickers Festival. If you’re a fan of bluegrass, Americana, or just love great stories from life on the road, you won’t want to miss this conversation!

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-----

#jasoncarter #michaelcleveland #bluegrass #fiddle #twinfiddles

In this episode, I recap my visit to the Charlotte Bluegrass Festival in Michigan, a storied event that has been running for 53 years at the Eaton County Fairgrounds. From the start, the festival’s small-town charm and sense of community were clear—local history, welcoming people, and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe really set the tone.

It was a privilege to see Billy Strings return to his roots, sharing heartfelt stories about his first experiences at the festival as a child and performing a special homecoming show—something longtime attendees and newcomers alike could appreciate. The festival offered a genuine bluegrass experience with jam sessions around the campgrounds, art installations, and lots of family traditions.

This year’s event took an emotional turn after the sudden passing of Billy’s mother, but it became a powerful reminder of the community’s support and spirit.

I break down the performances, the unique atmosphere, and why this gathering remains so important in Michigan’s musical landscape, making clear that for all its music and talent, it’s ultimately the people who keep the festival alive year after year.