Roadcase Podcast

The 502s frontman, Ed Isola is here this week!! Often referred to as “the happiest band on Earth,” The 502s bring the joyous energy to everything they do and their live shows are raucous celebrations of positivity!!  

In this super fun interview, I ask Ed about the nature of the band’s consistent outpouring of good vibes exemplified both onstage and on their most recent studio album, Easy Street, and we discuss that tricky balance between self-belief and self-actualization that can sometimes be so elusive.  

Ed is super down-to-earth and exudes gratitude and an upbeat vibe. I learned a ton from exploring all these issues with Ed and I think you will too in listening to this terrific conversation!   

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Chapters:

00:00 - Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

04:17 - Orlando roots and the hot-weather fan joke

05:34 - How Five O Two's got the "happiest band on earth" name

08:02 - COVID, social media, and learning to connect with fans online

11:16 - The downside of social media and blurred work-life lines

13:15 - The Easy Street album concept and title

15:01 - Why the band’s name comes from a childhood address

16:01 - First European tour sparked by a viral laundry room video

18:39 - Ed’s college wrestling background and discovering the banjo

20:06 - Early musical influences: Mumford and Sons, the Avetts, and Old Crow

23:20 - Where Ed’s positive attitude comes from

25:22 - Leaving the bank job and taking music seriously

27:28 - Writing songs while working full time and recording early EPs

29:12 - The risky move to leave the bank for a Europe tour

31:01 - Booking house shows in Europe and crashing on floors

33:34 - Seeing Mumford and Sons at the Ryman in 2012

38:32 - Transitioning back home and getting into music marketing

43:20 - The viral Magdalene video and early growth on tour

45:42 - Trying different sounds, videos, and live approaches

47:20 - More than upbeat songs: emotional range and lyricism

51:33 - The band’s energy, stage warmups, and group chemistry

52:11 - Why the current lineup works so well together

53:47 - Staying mentally grounded with exercise, reminders, and gratitude

58:03 - Writing with intention and focusing on process over pressure

01:01:15 - Why their look became "beach folk" instead of flannels

01:02:33 - The pastel office-style video and bank-era visual callback

01:03:30 - Opening for Old Crow Medicine Show at the Ryman

01:05:45 - Playing major festivals and seeing fans sing every word

01:07:42 - What it feels like when people connect deeply with the songs

01:09:43 - Episode wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

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For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I’m psyched to welcome back two-time Grammy-nominated @iammaggierose to Roadcase for this special episode!! Maggie is here to celebrate her new album, Half Moon, which was just released on August 14. 

One of my favorite artists, Maggie’s musical and vocal talents combined with her down-to-earth vibe have earned her a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim —  a sweet story of success given the challenges she faced early in her career when she fought through the Nashville system to have her own authentic voice. 

Maggie talks to me about the latest challenges of becoming a new mom, and we discuss the many themes she brought to the beautiful story arc reflected on Half Moon. It’s a wonderful and insightful conversation that I’m really excited for you to hear!!  

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00:00 Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

03:25 Maggie Rose's musical journey

05:45 Challenges for indie artists in Nashville and industry dynamics

07:26 Reflecting on Maggie Rose's latest album 'Half Moon'

09:19 The importance of album sequencing and storytelling

10:24 The importance of live performance and improvisation in music

11:33 Motherhood's influence on songwriting and emotional depth

13:31 Writing songs before and after Graham's birth

15:32 The influence of jam band culture and community

16:28 The song 'Gentleman' and themes of gender identity

19:25 The journey of authenticity and artistic integrity

20:25 Gender disparities in country radio and industry recognition

23:22 Social media, authenticity, and self-expression

25:19 The art of album sequencing and storytelling

28:24 The Nashville music scene and artist support

30:27 The moon as a metaphor for self-acceptance and growth

33:30 The shift towards artist independence and authenticity

35:25 Maggie Rose's journey across genres and collaborations

40:26 The significance of live moments and audience connection

45:29 The legacy of the Grateful Dead and its cultural impact

50:22 The importance of authenticity and artistic integrity

55:30 Closing thoughts and Maggie Rose's upcoming performances

1:08:30 Episode Wrap Up with Host Josh Rosenberg

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For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

For this final episode from Lollapalooza, I sat down for a quick chat with Nick Francis and Steve Filippone of Surfing for Daisy!  Childhood friends from Asbury Park, NJ, Nick and Steve have been playing music together since they were kids. As life then happened and they both went separate directions for a bit, they never forgot the keen musical connection they have always shared. They re-formed that connection three years ago, and hence Surfing for Daisy was born. And now they’re continuing to solidify that bond with their highly anticipated sophomore album, Echo the Madness, due out September 25. 

Nick and Steve talk to me about that shared bond, their musical influences and their individual experiences and adventures that lead them to this point. I love their classic rock vibe and their sheer determination to make this all happen, but most of all, I love how both these guys express their dedication to each other, to the band and to their music!!

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Chapters:

00:00 Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

03:55 - Introducing the band and the Asbury Park vibe

04:16 - Growing up in Freehold, New Jersey

05:28 - Lifelong friendships and how the band members first connected

06:45 - Why “Babe I’m Gonna Leave You” fit their live set

07:37 - High school bands, bedroom musicians, and early attempts to play together

09:15 - Nick’s years in the Navy and how Guam shaped his musicianship

11:04 - Finding the band through shared Jersey roots and mutual friends

11:46 - Touring for the last few years and building momentum

12:18 - Staying independent while assembling a strong team

13:14 - Playing shows on little sleep and building endurance on the road

13:50 - Musical influences: doo-wop, James Taylor, The Supremes, Zeppelin, and more

15:19 - The story behind “Methamphetamine” and writing about addiction

16:50 - Jersey directness versus Colorado passive aggression

17:35 - The sophomore album and making something more cinematic

18:37 - Upcoming shows, including the Basement and Beat Kitchen

19:21 - Why there are no September dates and how weddings and life plans fit in

21:13 - Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

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For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I’m psyched to welcome Easy Honey to Roadcase for Part 3 of my interviews from Lollapalooza which took place in the heart of Chicago a few weekends ago. I sat down with the full band and it was really great to get to know this close-knit group of friends (and brothers)! Easy Honey is Selby Austin, Webster Austin, Darby McGlone and Charlie Holt, and these guys have been absolutely crushing it recently with their Surf Tour on the back of their latest EP, Plaid.

Easy Honey’s vibe is reflective of their easy-breezy rock vibe and they’re as chill as you would expect. Originally from Eastern Tennessee with Selby and Darby forming an instant connection in college, they added the two remaining members and relocated to Charleston, SC — and hence their surf-rock and connection to community were officially solidified. Prolific writers, Easy Honey has a deep and unmistakable love for the music, and that authenticity translates to an inclusive and fun-loving onstage vibe which has drawn in fans as they continue to gain popularity.

I’m excited to share this special episode with you!!  Don't forget to follow Roadcase and you can visit Roadcase on Instagram, @roadcasepod!! 

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Chapters:

00:00 - Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

03:31 - Introductions at Lolla and first-time festival memories

04:36 - Crowd energy, opening the day, and the band’s chill reputation

05:43 - Day-one fans and the emotional rush of seeing the gates open

07:17 - The Oahu skate park show and how it came together

09:04 - Surfing, Charleston roots, and playing in Hawaii and California

09:35 - Supporting the Runarounds and the band-meta connection

11:14 - Meeting Jackson Browne and why he lived up to the hype

13:16 - How Easy Honey started in college in Sewanee, Tennessee

14:52 - The “stole Charlie” story and the real version of how the lineup formed

15:37 - Why Sewanee’s isolation pushed people toward music, drinking, and hanging out

19:08 - Moving to Charleston and why the city fit the band’s vibe

21:41 - The Jimmy Buffett toilet story and a funny family connection

23:43 - How the “Traffic Jam” performance idea was born from beach traffic

25:52 - Why the band keeps ideas simple, repeatable, and authentic instead of forcing history to repeat

26:58 - What Charlie listened to growing up and the metal influence at home

27:53 - Carter Vail, tour friendships, and the social side of being on the road

29:31 - Why the band released a 5-song EP instead of a full album

30:38 - Recording in remote Marble, Colorado and building songs as a package

31:41 - How the band’s sound has evolved from total spontaneity to more intention and structure

33:03 - Who writes lyrics, why writing can get harder, and staying honest in the room

34:04 - Surf tour plans, more music, and a return to Chicago later this year

34:56 - Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

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For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

In this Part 2 of my interviews from Lollapalooza, I’m happy to welcome back SNACKTIME to Roadcase!!  Sam Gellerstein and recent stellar addition on lead vocals, Nico Bryant, sit down with me to talk all about the latest news and developments in the their world. 

This amazing Funk, Soul, Rock band with a beautiful joyous energy have been spreading the love and good vibes since 2020, when they began playing outdoor shows in their native Philadelphia during the Pandemic Times. Now, with tons of shows behind them, Sam and Nico talk to me about how they’ve been working hard to refine their sound and become more focused. I’ve been following along on this ride for quite a while and their progression has been stunning!  

This is a really fun conversation and catch up with some of my favorite people and I can’t wait for you to hear this one!

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Chapters:

0:00 -- Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

3:57 — Early shows at South by, the band’s evolution, and what’s changed

5:02 — Refining the sound and becoming more focused

5:47 — Nico explains how he joined the band

7:32 — Big audience growth: “who the fuck is that band” to “get me that band right now”

8:14 — The band becoming more honest and letting people in

9:07 — Nico on performing like it’s the last show of his life

9:56 — Sam on being the band’s mouthpiece and force of positivity

12:10 — Community and family as the heart of Snack Time

14:05 — New record details and working with Justin Lucas

15:17 — “Better every single day”

15:44 — Looking ahead and remembering the raw early era

16:12 — Newport, the main stage moment, and promo opportunities

17:14 –– Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

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For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Last weekend, Lollapalooza rolled into my front yard in Chicago, and in this Series, I’ll be featuring the interviews I did with a handful of amazing artists playing this giant festival. For this Part 1, I was especially psyched to mark the occasion by first sitting down with my friend, the amazing and inspiring Goldie Boutilier, who’s making her third appearance on the show.

Since Goldie’s last interview for Roadcase in December 2024, she has been absolutely crushing it and I couldn’t be happier about her accomplishments. She was recently nominated for a Juno Award for Breakthrough Artist of the Year, made her TV debut on the Kelly Clarkson Show, opened for Katy Perry on the European leg of her World Tour late last year, and also had her song “King of Possibilities” featured as the theme song for the Netflix Series “The Hunting Wives.” These are major accomplishments by any measure, but when you understand Goldie’s life story, her continual rise becomes even more impressive.

Goldie talks to me about her constant evolution and transformation from a dreamer to a doer, the impact of being a role model for her fans, how owning her trauma and seeing herself in others has made her feel less alone, and we explore how her overcoming doubt and fear to conquer new challenges has made her even stronger. 

Goldie’s inspiring story is one of survival, resilience, grit, determination and self-belief — and I’m proud to have her on the show once again!!  You can click on the link in the bio to find it. It’s a very special conversation and I cannot wait for you to give it a listen. 

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Chapters:

00:00 - Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

03:55 - Introducing Goldie's inspiring story

04:46 - Redefining manifestation through perseverance and resilience

05:38 - How two years transformed Goldie's perception of time and achievement

06:37 - The practicality behind fashion and persona as part of her healing journey

07:38 - Reflecting on her industry milestones: opening for Katy Perry and TV debut

09:17 - The evolution from revenge pop to resilient and healing pop music

10:51 - The significance of her past struggles and how they inform her artistry

11:46 - Connecting with fans through vulnerability and shared trauma

13:18 - Using storytelling to impact others and promote healing

14:57 - The importance of authenticity versus appearance—navigating fashion and art

15:39 - How her persona layers with her genuine self, creating a multi-dimensional artist

17:35 - The power of venues like the Troubadour and meaningful fan interactions

19:17 - Sharing her long road of recovery and triumph over past hardships

21:46 - The role of community and shared experience in her music's reach

23:20 - The impact of landmark achievements like opening for major artists and licensing success

24:46 - Overcoming doubt and celebrating her success with awards and recognition

26:10 - The importance of expressing gratitude to supporting family and community

26:48 - Her upcoming album "The Godmother" and its themes of maternal care and spiritual resilience

28:42 - The healing power of dance and upbeat music in her new projects

29:50 - Reflecting on her alter ego Goldie Montana as a symbol of bravery and transformation

31:59 - The extraordinary impact of her song on "The Hunting Wives"

33:10 - Experiences touring with Katy Perry and lessons learned from the interaction

36:00 - Navigating the challenge of connecting with fans and managing DMs

37:31 - The significance of the Troubadour show and its emotional resonance

39:06 - The comfort of community and shared understanding with her audience

39:56 - Embracing authenticity and the journey from hardship to rainbow-colored resilience

41:06 - Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

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For more information on Goldie and tour dates: https://www.goldieenterprises.com/

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For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

In this final interview from Newport Folk Festival, I sat down with the awesome duo of Casey Gomez Walker and Spencer Tweedy, whose project, Case Oats, is one of my favorite alt-country Chicago bands.

Casey and Spencer are a uniquely compelling duo — complementing each other’s talents — both personally and professionally. Case Oats’ most recent album, the critically acclaimed Last Missouri Exit, combines Casey’s keen literary background with Spencer’s knowledge of the craft of songwriting to create a truly groundbreaking album.

Spencer, who of course comes from musical family and as he calls it, “a culture of belief,” talks to me about how his own belief in Casey’s ability and strengths pushed them further to even greater heights and allowed them to exceed their goals. This is an inspiring and informative interview with two super intriguing artists who embody a self-belief and fearlessness.

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00:00 - Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

03:40 - Introduction to Casey Oats and their origins in Chicago

03:51 - Casey’s creative writing background impacts his songwriting

04:21 - Transition from writing stories to making an album

04:49 - How meeting Spencer encouraged continued music creation

05:34 - The culture of belief in making art and its normalization

06:30 - Spencer’s journey from unfamiliarity to making records

07:12 - Writing songs from short stories and focusing on core truths

08:05 - Spencer’s experience of working under pressure and saying yes

09:36 - The quick turnaround for their album and embracing fearlessness

10:23 - The humility and bravery involved in creative risks

11:13 - The story behind "Last Missouri Exit" as a symbolic milestone

11:57 - Touring in Europe and favorite venues and cities

12:41 - Supporting and collaborating with other Chicago artists

13:40 - Family influences, especially their parents' roles in music and industry

14:57 - The importance of craft, dedication, and perseverance in songwriting

16:19 - The power of expression and meaningful engagement in music

17:18 - The significance of "Last Missouri Exit" as a record and personal symbol

18:26 - The idea of writing a novel titled "Last Missouri Exit"

20:14 - How Casey and Spencer met and began collaborating

21:27 - Their early gigs at G Man and the evolution of their band

22:25 - Touring highlights in Norway, Madrid, and the UK

22:42 - The experience of sold-out shows and the feeling of achievement

24:20 - The Chicago music scene’s supportive nature and emerging youth talent

25:11 - The importance of community, collaboration, and nurturing future generations

26:51 - Their advice on creativity, community, and staying true to oneself

27:30 - Episode Wrap-Up with Host Josh Rosenberg

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For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

For this interview from Newport Folk Festival, I spoke to acclaimed singer songwriter  and Grammy nominee Morgan Nagler!!  Morgan’s debut album, “I’ve Got Nothing to Lose, and I’m Losing It,” is her first as a solo artist and represents a key step in her personal and professional evolution.

When her work with Phoebe Bridgers on the song “Kyoto” turned into a Grammy nomination, Morgan’s life changed and she became a much sought-after songwriting partner and collaborator, which eventually gave her the impetus to launch her own solo career.

Morgan shares with me her journey from child actor to songwriter and then to solo artist — and she talks to me about the constantly present themes of identity, artistic rebirth, and balancing the dualities of her life as a creative. 

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Chapters:

00:00 Episode Introduction with Host Josh Rosenberg

04:00 - Morgan’s music journey and recent Newport performance

05:02 - Reflection on her career rebirth and album debut

05:31 - The meaning behind her album title and its philosophical roots

05:47 - The art of losing what you don’t have and living without proving anything

06:39 - The balance between nothing to prove and proving oneself

07:08 - The influence of yin-yang, and holding ideas simultaneously

07:43 - Reflection on the maturity required for her recent album

08:55 - Growing up in Manhattan Beach, LA; journey from child actor to songwriter

09:33 - Writing for other artists and her extensive musical collaborations

10:16 - The scenic route in her life and career evolution

10:43 - Embracing life’s path without comparison and with patience

11:43 - From Highland Park to Montanito — LA’s creative suburbs

12:18 - Her childhood acting career and early pursuits in music

13:09 - Transition from script readings to songwriting for self-expression

14:01 - How her childhood experiences shaped her artistic identity

15:41 - The profound impact of songwriting during her TV career

16:48 - The challenge of breaking into the music scene later in life

18:59 - Her breakthrough with Phoebe Bridgers’ Grammy-nominated song "Kyoto"

20:16 - Writing with and for other artists as a form of empathy and therapy

21:00 - Clarifying her songwriting process and subconscious themes

23:00 - Why her debut album came later in life and the journey of self-discovery

24:16 - The cathartic process of creating a breakup album

24:42 - Using music as a way to process and release feelings

25:4 - The concept of "realist hope" 

26:48 - Staying grateful and grounded amidst the chaos of the world

27:57 - Her parents' influence and early life in LA

29:31 - Writing for Maddie Diaz and Margot Price

30:30 - The differences and insights gained from collaborative songwriting

31:32 - The importance of perspective shifts in creative and personal growth

33:17 - Morgan’s upcoming UK tour with King Tuff and her touring plans

35:03 - Final thoughts on her artistic path and future projects

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For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I was privileged once again to attend Newport Folk Festival and even more grateful to sit down with Madi Diaz — four years after her first Roadcase guest spot in 2022. Madi is a striking artist with a unique flair for vulnerability and for putting her authentic self — and her feelings — on display in her songwriting. She is also a two-time Grammy nominee for her album Weird Faith, and was a member of Harry Styles’ touring band in 2023.

Madi talks to me about the importance of embracing her feelings, especially in navigating relationships, and she discusses with me how her knack for finding joy in uncertainty and the unknown helps shape not only her artistry but also her outlook on life. Her upcoming deluxe release — the UN-unplugged version — of her album Fatal Optimist is coming out on September 4, and it further underscores the hope embedded in her attitude of “defiant optimism.”  

Heads up for more interviews from Newport Folk Festival, coming up this week and next!!

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Chapters:

00:00 - Episode intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

04:05 - Maddie Diaz's journey and upcoming album Fatal Optimist

06:23 - How songwriting reflects personal and universal emotions

08:53 - The meaning behind Fatal Optimist as laughing in the face of the current world

10:26 - Strategies for managing intense feelings through acceptance and presence

12:50 - Decision-making guided by gut instinct and living with no wrong choices

14:55 - The creative process behind her innovative music videos and art installations

18:28 - Navigating relationships and personal growth during tour adventures

20:05 - The transformative experience of performing for Harry Styles and large audiences

23:51 - Reflections on touring at Wembley and the impact on her music and mindset

27:19 - Her focus on new music, upcoming solo shows, and ongoing projects

29:23 - Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

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For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Grace Potter brings her upbeat energy and Rock vibes to Roadcase for this week’s episode. I’m super psyched to have Grace on the show — she’s a total free spirit, and with her upcoming new album, Trespasser, due out on August 21, she is finding herself at an intriguing crossroads along her lifelong path of creative expression. Constantly pushing the barriers and challenging norms, Grace proudly and unapologetically is her own self, unafraid to venture into new territory or inhabit new (and old) characters. It’s refreshing and inspiring.

A four-time Grammy nominee, Grace talks to me about her unconventional career path and the ways she now benefits from her own life experience to cast a broader view of her life’s journey. We also explore the benefits of vulnerability, and Grace explains how recognizing the barriers we all face allows her to hold up a mirror, and find that perspective we need to exceed our own expectations in life.    

This is truly an epic interview with a one-of-a-kind artist.

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Chapters:

00:00  Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

03:10 - Grace Potter: Embracing authenticity & breaking boundaries in music

05:40 - The influence of Topanga's musical history and local legends

07:55 - The story behind Grace's house and its legendary residents (Spirit, Dr. Demento)

11:47 - Evolution of her sound from early days to the latest album Trespasser

15:26 - Exploring storytelling, characters, and permission in songwriting

19:53 - The importance of truth and vulnerability in artistic identity

23:11 - Navigating gender, performance, and energy on stage

27:33 - Balancing delicacy and power in her music and persona

31:21 - The role of control, unpredictability, and the fluidity of performance

36:19 - The pop versus rock dichotomy and maintaining authenticity

40:30 - The story of her unreleased album Medicine and its creative journey

46:18 - The impact of record label decisions and creative independence

52:51 - Real-life stories of boundary crossings, societal expectations, and trust

1:01:55 - The importance of understanding and trusting your own limits

1:06:29 - The vibrant live music scene, festival energy, and connecting with audiences

1:08:10 - Future projects: albums, microfilms, and the ongoing storytelling adventure

1:09:24 - Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

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For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer