Podunk Perspective Podcast

Podunk Perspective 

Hosted By Seth Packan
Shot in Nashville, TN. Produced by Nolan Sritan Photo.

Caleb Mills         
Caleb, a singer and songwriter, has been performing and writing music since he was 8 years old while growing up in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. He was inspired by his granddaddy Billy Ray McBroom who played bass guitar with greats like Ernest Ashworth,Charlie Rich, and Diamond Rio. This Muscle Shoals' soul and country music connection has a left a “Southern Soul Stamp” on his music that is uniquely his own. While a young boy, Caleb sat in the circles of gospel, soul, bluegrass, blues and outlaw country performers that are rooted into his music today. Caleb’s musical influences in his younger years were diverse. While he is focusing on traveling to live shows, he spends considerable time recording and co-writing new music. As his career blooms, the 24-year-old who now lives in Nashville, surprises his audience with vocal maturity and original songs. The soulful lyrics of his own songs, shine through his personal experiences and provokes listeners to ask for more from this young writer. He can deliver sexy, engaging ballads and Southern rock songs of his own that bring down the house.

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/2hoDSV1Gib8tGTS7q1yKWP?si=rUR_m9LCS-WXlmUeyxDN-Q
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@thecalebmills?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecalebmills?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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PODUNK PERSPECTIVE PODCAST

Podunk Perspective 

Hosted By Seth Packan
Shot in Nashville, TN. Produced by Nolan Sritan Photo.

Jackie Lee         
When confronted with the crucible of tragedy, some will melt down and others emerge stronger than ever. The latter was the case for up-and-coming Country artist Jackie Lee.

Following the heartbreaking death of his mother in June 2016, the 25-year-old vocal powerhouse has undergone a complete transformation – personally and musically – rededicating himself to a whole new attitude and poised for a breakthrough with the romantically-charged single, “Getting Over You.”

“After six years in Nashville, I had yet to look in the mirror and recognize the artist,” he admits of his early music. “I finally feel like I had that moment when I recorded ‘Getting Over You.’”

Featuring an ultra-modern, electronic sound with propulsive drums and wounded vocals so hot they might spontaneously combust, Lee was determined to leave his fingerprints all over the new track, even if that meant breaking way from his earlier sound.

Growing up in a loving home in Maryville, Tennessee – a picturesque town nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains – Lee cut his teeth singing faithful tunes in a church hopping three-piece band, but his unique brand of forward-thinking country was always bubbling under the surface, just waiting to be unleashed.

“Until my dad met my mom in ‘89, he had never listened to any other type of music than country,” Lee explains. “No radio stations, he never bought a record, nothing. But my mom was a straight ‘80s pop girl, and because he loved her he started listening to artists like Michael Jackson, Phil Collins and Michael Bolton, and I feel like that’s where my fusion lands.”

Upon first arriving in Nashville, that fusion was too far outside the box to contemplate. But forced to stare the biggest of all big pictures in the face, Lee decided it was his duty to try – if not for him, then for his mom.

“There is just something about a mom that is unlike anything in this entire world,” he says, steeling his reserve against a still-broken heart. “A lot of perspective came on June 4 this year that I have never experienced before and never wanted to experience. And there are so many things in my career now that I look at and think ‘None of this is worth it if I’m not being myself.’”

With a renewed sense of purpose, “Getting Over You” is a high-definition look at who Lee really is, lyrically and sonically. Co-written with hit makers Brent Anderson and Paul DiGiovanni, it shows Lee’s hard-wired connection to matters of the heart – and also reveals the genesis of his ambitious new sound.

While influenced by classic country singers like Faron Young and Keith Whitley, one of Jackie’s favorite bands as a kid was the platinum selling pop-rock group Boys Like Girls – a band which happens to feature DiGiovanni as its founding guitarist. The unlikely friends met randomly during a Nashville songwriting session, inspiring Lee to ask DiGiovanni to produce his new music, and take it in the direction he helped create with Boys Like Girls – energetic, emotional and above all, fresh.

Check out Jackie Lees new song "After Loving You" dropping December 5th. Jackie also has new music on the way in 2026! 

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/25MYbTsDB9aQ70l6VqNKOR?si=HDPhWgjPQzKbr1-5Eh9m6Q
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@jackieleemusicofficial?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jackieleemusic?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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PODUNK PERSPECTIVE PODCAST

Podunk Perspective 

Hosted By Seth Packan
Shot in Nashville, TN. Produced by Nolan Sritan Photo.

Nicole Croteau         
Raised in the Rocky Mountains of Whitefish, Montana, Nicole began writing songs at a young age, weaving stories with the same honesty and warmth that would later define her music. Her first Statewide Country Music competition was at the age of 17, where she came in 3 rd performing her original song “Thirsty Roots.” Signing her first label deal with “Dream Records” at only 19. She toured the country as a solo CCM artist, from coee houses, churches and theaters to festivals and even colleges; and then on to doing her first radio tour. After 2 years, she realized her heart was still leading her back to country music and to Nashville. She made the move at only 20 years old to Music City and almost a decade of penning songs behind the scenes, accumulating over 50,000,000 streams as a writer, Nicole recently returned to the spotlight with new music of her own. Her latest releases, “Tonight Tennessee” and “Who Do You Love,” are laced with emotion, steel guitar, and that signature Nicole vulnerability fans adore. She’s currently working on her debut EP set to release in 2026.

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/2vexU7eNjnFNxf47wTl67h?si=t_KZas82Se25phbg6egGWA
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@nicolecroteaumusic?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nicolecroteau?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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PODUNK PERSPECTIVE PODCAST

Podunk Perspective 

Hosted By Seth Packan
Shot in Nashville, TN. Produced by Nolan Sritan Photo.

Matt Koziol         
Matt Koziol is a New Jersey–born, Nashville-based country/Americana singer-songwriter known for his gritty vocals, heartfelt writing, and blend of country, rock, and Americana. Before stepping out as a solo artist, he built a strong career as a songwriter, collaborating with artists like John Paul White, Joy Oladokun, Jimmie Allen, Charlie Worsham, and Steve Moakler. He signed a publishing deal with Prescription Songs in 2019 and later joined RED Creative Group as an artist. His 2022 debut album Wildhorse, produced by Matthew Odmark, showcased years of life experience through raw, cinematic storytelling, followed by the expanded Wildhorse (Barrel Aged) edition. In 2024 he released his second album, Last of the Old Dogs, a 13-track project blending country, rock, bluegrass, and blues with features from artists like Vince Gill and Isaac Gibson. Koziol is known for high-energy, emotionally charged live shows and has toured or performed alongside Whiskey Myers, 49 Winchester, Charles Wesley Godwin, and more. He’s represented by a booking team that has included CAA and, most recently, North Loop Agency, further expanding his national footprint. His sound—shaped by influences like Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell, Tom Petty, and The Rolling Stones—continues to earn praise for its authenticity, soul, and craftsmanship.

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/2FxP1QGYEVLE2pI1TBBDQs?si=hkqiBMEGQ2iU-96ZKokFwg
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@mattkoziolmusic?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mattkoziolmusic?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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PODUNK PERSPECTIVE PODCAST

Podunk Perspective 

Hosted By Seth Packan
Shot in Nashville, TN. Produced by Nolan Sritan Photo.

Michael Schott         
Meet 2025 CCMA Entertainer of the Year Michael Schott, a 14-year-old Nashville recording artist making waves in the world of traditional country music. Growing up in a small farming community in Eastern North Carolina, he picked up his first guitar—a $50 gift from his grandpa—at age 10, sparking a passion that would quickly define his future. From winning his 5th grade talent show to becoming a standout performer in his local music scene, Michael’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. By 2024, he had played major stages, released his debut single, and caught the attention of Nashville producers Tom Yankton (Rascal Flatts) and Jimmy Ritchey (Clay Walker, Mark Chesnutt, Jake Owen). In 2025, he has already opened for Sawyer Brown, Parmalee, Switchfoot, and Chris Cagle, while performing at top festivals across North Carolina and Virginia. With a slate of new releases ahead, Michael is poised to become one of country music’s brightest and most authentic new stars.

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/3r3EroEBBo3LIwnTXlnbXk?si=202aqBLhSTiVxyUqgcbiVw
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@michael_schott_music?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/michaelschottmusic?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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PODUNK PERSPECTIVE PODCAST

Podunk Perspective 

Hosted By Seth Packan
Shot in Nashville, TN. Produced by Nolan Sritan Photo.

Anna Barnes         
Anna Barnes is a soulful American singer-songwriter whose voice has been described as combining the grit of Janis Joplin with the soul of Amy Winehouse and the range of Mariah Carey.  

Originally from Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Anna grew up immersed in beach-music and classic R&B influences. Early on she learned guitar and piano, began performing in local bars as a teenager, and gradually developed a strong stage presence.

Anna blends elements of R&B, soul, rock and Southern charm. Her vocal style has been called “dusky,” “weathered,” and emotionally driven. Her original songs, such as “Used To Do,” “Over,” “Kiss My Glass,” and “Choose Me”, showcase her ability to shift from heartfelt ballads to high-energy rock-inflected numbers.  

She is also noted for her dynamic live shows. Having lived on the road in an RV, she’s performed across the U.S., from Montana to Miami, and has done over 200 shows in a year. Check out Anna Barnes on all platforms and see where she plays next!

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/3P5hdPTsFTGpsMvgAmXOd7?si=S7uT5eDZQ32TRVxxralDMw
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@annabarnesmusic?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/annabarnesmusic?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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PODUNK PERSPECTIVE PODCAST

Podunk Perspective 

Hosted By Seth Packan
Shot in Nashville, TN. Produced by Nolan Sritan Photo.

Cole Bradford         
Cole Bradford is a Nashville-based country singer-songwriter originally from Conyers, Georgia. A proud Georgia native from the suburb of Atlanta, Cole grew up on Country, R&B, and hip-hop. He stays true to his roots with songs like “For Sale By Owner” and “Move On Too” — his authenticity and real-life storytelling resonates with listeners from all walks of life, delivering raw emotion and relatability in every lyric. 

With ten songs currently available on all streaming platforms and more new music to come this year, Cole continues to carve out his place in the modern country scene. He has gained over 80,000 new listeners on Spotify since January of 2025, and has been featured on Austin Burke’s Playlisted Podcast, which spotlights rising talent in Music City. 

Beyond music, Cole entered an exciting new chapter—fatherhood. His first child was born in May of 2025, bringing even more depth and heart to his songwriting.

Stay tuned, there’s much more to come from Cole Bradford!

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/4Jb19hEdcR45AlMZA4he3F?si=O2ZM0ZP_R-G9Z48fawJOaQ
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@colebradfordmusic?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/colebradfordmusic?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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PODUNK PERSPECTIVE PODCAST

Podunk Perspective 

Hosted By Seth Packan
Shot in Nashville, TN. Produced by Nolan Sritan Photo.

Kat Velasco         
The newest breakout star on the pop-country scene, Kat Velasco, has charmed Nashville revelers, music theater aficionados, and southern merrymakers alike. South Carolina native, she developed a love for musical theater early, honing her stage presence from a young age. That passion eventually found its way into songwriting, shaping her dynamic, rootsy sound. Her breakout single, “Leave Me Wild,” quickly garnered attention with its bright, chirpy instrumentation and vibrant vocal delivery. A twanging slide guitar landed her on New Music Weekly and Fresh Finds Country, two of Spotify’s hottest playlists. Velasco has released numerous singles featured in Music Connection, CMA, Holler, and Wide Open Country. She has also performed across the country with acts like Love and Theft, BRELAND, David Nail, and Tierra Kennedy. Recent tracks push her toward a more edgy, refined sound. As Wide Open Country put it, “just fun,” letting loose and allowing the now Nashville-based singer to revel in the momentary bliss of a callout. In contrast, the darker, more introspective “Breaking My Own Heart” reveals a softer, vulnerable side. balancing her lively, impassioned persona with raw emotional honesty. Velasco’s remarkable range: crafting warm, deeply sincere country music while also commanding the stage as a bold, unstoppable presence in today’s music scene. 

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/5yQUEBrCLsgRvH8ceG7TTM?si=U-w4lmDFS3OReEPw4Twu_Q
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@wantedkatvelasco?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kat.velasco.music?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Johnny Gates         
Johnny Gates is originally from Rhode Island. After high school, he played guitar and sang in a punk/rock-influenced band called The Invite, which later evolved into Runaway Saints, grinding through small venues, VFW halls and dive bars on the East Coast. His early exposure to rock, touring life and band-culture set the foundation for his artistry. Driven by a love for country songwriting and the desire to grow, Gates and Runaway Saints moved to Nashville.   With the band, he signed a major label deal, moved to Los Angeles, and supported major artists including opening for Rod Stewart on tour. Yet over time the band felt the pressures of chasing hits and big-label expectations; they eventually parted ways. After the run with the band, Gates transitioned into a solo career. He auditioned for The Voice (U.S. season 12) and made a memorable impression with his performance of “Maggie May,” earning turns from multiple coaches. This exposure opened doors for his solo artist identity, beyond just the rock-band frontman persona. At a turning point in his mid-30s, Johnny returned to Nashville for good, shifting focus from solely performing to songwriting and production. He signed a publishing deal with Deluge Music and released his solo work while exploring artist development. He co-founded the label/collective East Music Row Records (with David Robkin and Austin Luther) which places an emphasis on “artist-first” development and blends the indie/alt spirit of Nashville with Music Row professionalism. Through the label he works with rising talents and serves as songwriter/producer/A&R, while still releasing his own material.  

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/2qwlFTAV2LVhQ01ljAyWJz?si=ydahxKy6TVqpZSQF3v3SaQ
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/johnnysings?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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PODUNK PERSPECTIVE PODCAST

Podunk Perspective 

Hosted By Seth Packan
Shot in Nashville, TN. Produced by Nolan Sritan Photo.

John Haywood         
Born and raised just south of Baltimore, MD, John Haywood moved to Nashville in 2021 and caught the attention of industry insiders with his gritty vocals and old school outlaw country sound - reminiscent of Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings.

Haywood found initial success with his first viral songwriting cut "Tamed by Tennessee" reaching over 2 million streams while his first three singles "Ghost Town in the Sky,” "Saint” and “Midnight Cowboy” have totaled over 300,000 streams. In 2023, Haywood made his television debut as lead singer of the band Gamblers in the Neon on the AXS show "Banded: The Musician Competition" and he appeared at the Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival (2023 and 2024).

Haywood has written hundreds of songs since landing in Music City, establishing a unique sound and authentic storytelling. Country fans will undoubtedly be watching this talented young man as he carves out his own lane in the music industry, captivating audiences with his fresh take on a soulful traditional country sound.

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/5yQUEBrCLsgRvH8ceG7TTM?si=U-w4lmDFS3OReEPw4Twu_Q
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@hey_haywood?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/heyhaywood?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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PODUNK PERSPECTIVE PODCAST

Podunk Perspective 

Hosted By Seth Packan
Shot in Nashville, TN. Produced by Nolan Sritan Photo.

Mac Greer         
Mac Greer is a rising voice in Country and Americana/Alt-Country music, hailing from Boone, North Carolina & Sautee Nacoochee, Georgia. With a soulful voice and raw, heartfelt lyrics, Mac captures the spirit of Nashville, its beauty, heartbreak, and resilience.

Blending the warmth of classic country with the edge of modern Americana, Mac has crafted a sound that feels both timeless and new. His songs explore themes of love, loss, and personal growth, painting vivid pictures of small-town life and the open road.

What sets Mac apart is his authenticity. Every performance is steeped in honesty and emotion, whether he’s delivering a tender ballad or a driving, blue-collar anthem. His storytelling connects deeply with listeners, transporting them to a place where music still tells the truth.

With undeniable talent and a deep commitment to his craft, Mac Greer continues to carve his place in the Country and Americana scene. His music resonates with the heart of America and reminds us of the power of a song to bring people together. Check Mac Greer out on all platforms and get ready for some new music!

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/2Wlcfr4zq5ekGSEgICtMC9?si=5vM8durnRlGTDpKDoG0a0A
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@regular_glaze?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/regular_glaze?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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PODUNK PERSPECTIVE PODCAST