Some of the most important musicians in American music history don’t chase attention.
They chase the work.

Kirk Smothers has spent over 40 years doing just that—playing, recording, touring the world, shaping records you’ve heard, and building a life in music without a digital footprint, a brand strategy, or a highlight reel.

In this episode of Spirits in the Material World, Kirk and I talk about:

• Growing up in Memphis and finding music early

• What it really takes to make a living as a working musician

• Playing with world-class artists without chasing fame

• Tone, discipline, relationships, and longevity

• Why some legends stay hidden in plain sight

This isn’t a hype interview.
It’s a master class in musicianship, humility, and letting the phone keep ringing because you’ve earned it.

🎷 Featuring Kirk Smothers
🎙️ Full episode available now

Step inside the heartbeat of Memphis with Grammy Award-winning producer and engineer Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell, the man carrying forward the legendary legacy of Royal Studios — where timeless soul meets modern sound.

In this intimate, one-hour conversation, host Sean Blankenship dives deep with Boo into the spirit that lives within the walls of one of the world’s most iconic recording studios — the birthplace of the Hi Records sound and home to classics from Al Green, Ann Peebles, and the Hi Rhythm Section.

Boo opens up about growing up under the mentorship of his father, the late Willie Mitchell, and how he continues that lineage by guiding a new generation of artists — from Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars (“Uptown Funk”) to John Mayer, Melissa Etheridge, and William Bell. Together, they explore what makes Memphis music eternal: authenticity, groove, and that unexplainable magic that can’t be programmed.

You’ll hear stories about Grammy nights, ghostly moments in the studio, and what Boo calls “the spirit in the sound.” It’s part history lesson, part creative masterclass, and all heart — a reminder that while technology evolves, soul never goes out of style.

Keywords: Boo Mitchell, Royal Studios, Memphis Music, Willie Mitchell, Al Green, Hi Records, Uptown Funk, Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars, Grammy Producer, Memphis Soul, Recording Studio, Music Production, Creativity, Leadership, Legacy, Delta Blues, Spirits in the Material World Podcast.

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Ted Townsend serves as the President and CEO of the Greater Memphis Chamber, a role he assumed in December 2022 following a unanimous vote by the organization's Board of Directors. Prior to this, he held the position of Chief Economic Development Officer for both the Greater Memphis Chamber and the University of Memphis from 2020 to 2022, where he contributed to regional growth initiatives. With over a decade of experience in economic development and government relations, Townsend has been instrumental in attracting significant investments to Memphis, including the multi-billion-dollar xAI supercomputer project, which represents the city's largest capital investment by a new company in its history. He previously served as Chairman of the Board for Life Science Tennessee, focusing on expanding life sciences industry jobs in the region. Townsend earned his degree from the University of Memphis and transitioned to the Chamber after being recruited in the wake of a leadership vacancy in 2018.

In this episode, Geoff Calkins, a prominent journalist from Memphis, shares his intriguing journey from Buffalo, New York, to Harvard and into the world of sports journalism. Despite sharing a name with a successful entrepreneur and having a Twitter handle stolen by his nephew, he carved his own path. Calkins humorously recounts a time he challenged himself to play Christmas carols on a tuba if the Memphis Grizzlies lost ten consecutive games, only to see it come true. Growing up with eight siblings and surviving childhood leukemia, his story is one of resilience and finding humor amidst challenges.

The latest episode of 'Spirits in the Material World' features an engaging conversation between host Sean Blankenship and guest Andy O'Fee, known as the Yankee Closer. They delve into Andy's intriguing transition from Wall Street to Memphis, his rich childhood experiences in New Jersey, and a shared love for baseball. Reflecting on their generational differences in childhood play, the discussion touches on modern sports culture and community lifestyles. With the recent Delta storms setting the scene, the dialogue navigates through topics of family dynamics, sports history, and how past adventures influence current life choices and professional pursuits.

In this engaging episode of 'Spirits in the Material World,' host Sean Blankenship introduces Doug Browne, President and General Manager of the iconic Peabody Hotel in Memphis. Browne shares his journey from growing up in the Caribbean with a military background to becoming a luminary in the hospitality industry. Listeners are treated to anecdotes about his passion for ballroom dancing, his aspirations of playing the piano to impress guests, and his deep roots within the Memphis community. Browne's experiences highlight the cultural richness of Memphis and his dedication to preserving its legacy while pushing forward with innovation.

In this podcast episode, Sean and Wyatt Blankenship explore the complex world of whiskey. They delve into the distinctions between different types of whiskey such as bourbon, rye, and scotch, explaining the unique ingredients and processes each involves. Wyatt shares insights on how bourbon should be 51% corn and aged in new charred white oak barrels. Regional influences, like Tennessee whiskey's Lincoln county process, also play a significant role. As a clinical educator turned whiskey enthusiast, Wyatt provides listeners with informative yet accessible knowledge for those new to whiskey, making the spirit less intimidating and more intriguing.

In 'Spirits in the Material World,' host Sean Blankenship embarks on an exploration of the Mid-South Delta's rich cultural heritage. Through deep-dive interviews, the podcast offers a captivating look into the lesser-known stories of Memphis and its surrounding areas, exploring themes of music, mysticism, and community. With a dedication to emotional storytelling, Sean artfully connects listeners with the authentic spirit of the region. Each episode invites you to discover the vivid tapestry of life, unraveling traditions and lifestyles shaped by the Delta's unique history. Join this enlightening journey, where real lives and local voices bring the past to life.