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On September 10, 2025, the United States witnessed two unnecessary tragedies: the Evergreen High School shooting in Colorado and the fatal shooting of activist Charlie Kirk. That same evening, while already in the studio, the Band Dads pressed record for an impromptu, unrehearsed, and raw conversation about these events—and about a bigger question that’s hard to ignore:

If we already know that belonging to inclusive, creative groups like band changes lives, why do we keep accepting violence as if it’s unsolvable?

We explore whether those who commit these acts might have chosen differently if they had been rooted in an inclusive, supportive, and productive community. Why are subjects like English and Math required, yet programs like Band—proven to shape character and create lifelong connections—remain optional? This year, the U.S. will spend $4 billion on measures meant to protect kids from violence in schools. But what if even a fraction of that was redirected to programs that address the cause at its source?

Politics aside, this is about culture and priorities. We ask:

• What will it take for people to stop accepting violence as inevitable?
• If the answers are already in front of us, why aren’t we demanding them?
• How can families, educators, and communities push for real change?

This episode isn’t about easy solutions. It’s about pausing, reflecting, and confronting the uncomfortable truth: we know community saves lives—so what will it take to make it happen?

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In this episode of the Band Dads Podcast, we’re once again joined by Darrin Davis — one of the premier minds in the marching arts, current DCI and BOA judge, and the former director of the four-time Grand National Champion Pride of Broken Arrow.

Together, we dive into what happens starting at camp and go through the competition season:

• What is the true objective by the time students leave those long, hot summer days?
• How much influence do judges’ critiques really have on shaping a show?
• Are show moments ever deliberately held back for maximum impact later in the season?
• How late can changes still be made?
• And the big question: is a show ever really finished?

Darrin brings a candid and refreshing perspective, revealing that while the details may vary, the heart of the activity never changes — and it’s not about chasing the highest score. It’s about growth, experience, and creating something unforgettable together.

This is not just “part two” — it’s the rest of the story.

Thank you to the Coyote Pride from Campo Verde High School in Gilbert Arizona for our intro this week!

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In this episode of the Band Dads Podcast, our guest is none other than Darrin Davis, one of the most respected and influential minds in the marching arts — current DCI and Bands of America judge, and the former director of the legendary Pride of Broken Arrow, where he led the program to four BOA Grand National Championships.

After setting the stage with our deep dive into band camp (including three episodes inside the action), we now shift our focus to the heart of the marching season: the show itself. In "From Design to Day One", we explore the entire creative journey of a marching band production — from the very first spark of an idea up to the moment students arrive at band camp.

What comes first, the story or the music? How do themes, uniforms, props, and drill all come together? Which staff are involved, and when do the key decisions happen? And could we even see an AI-generated show in the future?

Get ready for insider insight from one of the industry’s best, explained in a way that both band veterans and first-time parents can understand and appreciate!

Special thanks to The Sound of Brownsburg Marching Band from Brownsburg High School for the excellent introduction for this episode.

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This special episode of The Band Dads Podcast is dedicated to the life and legacy of Jaxon Landfair, a beloved member of the Basha High School Band community whose story continues to inspire far beyond his years.

Jaxon was just like any other teenager, he loved video games, his part-time job, and above all, being part of the band. But during his junior year, his world and his family’s world changed forever when he was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. With unwavering courage and positivity, Jaxon fought through remission, relapse, and the harsh realities of treatment. Even in his hardest moments, he chose to focus on others leaving behind a legacy of light, service, and hope.

In this episode, we sit down with Jaxon’s parents, Jessica and Jay Landfair, to share his story in their words. It’s not just a story about loss, it’s a story of perspective, love, and the incredible impact one young life can have on the world.

We invite you to reflect with us, to hug the ones you love a little tighter, and to learn more about the ongoing mission of the Jaxon Foundation
, which continues to honor Jaxon’s life by supporting others.

Send us your thoughts or messages of love to Jaxon and his family to [email protected]

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Inside Band Camp – Part 3: This is the end my friend
In the final installment of our band camp docu-series, we continue into the sounds, sweat, and spirit of the high school marching experience. This episode kicks off inside a battery percussion sectional, where you'll not only hear the drive of the drumline but also get a breakdown of the lingo and learn what all that rhythmic jargon really means.

We also shine a spotlight on the true MVPs behind the scenes — our Booster Band Moms, who spent their entire Saturday fitting uniforms for every single student in the program. Their dedication keeps the band moving (and looking sharp), and it's time they got their flowers.

In a spontaneous twist, Chris finds Scott hanging out at camp, leading to a raw, unscripted Band Dads conversation recorded live and unfiltered — just two dads soaking in the experience.

We then drop in on an inspiring clinic led by acclaimed educator Mark Richardson, Assistant Director of the Sun Devil Marching Band and founder of The Academy Drum & Bugle Corps. His insight and energy offer a masterclass in musicianship and motivation.

Finally, we close out with the band directors themselves, reflecting on the week: What went well? What didn’t? Did they accomplish what they hoped? What’s the vibe moving forward? Their reflections bring full-circle closure to the camp experience — and set the tone for the season ahead.

Whether you've been with us since Part 1 or you're jumping in now, this episode is a celebration of the people, passion, and purpose that make band camp unforgettable.

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Inside Band Camp – Part 2: The Students’ Story
In this continuation of our immersive band camp series, we shift the focus to the students — the heart and soul of every program. You'll hear directly from the student leadership team as they open up about how band has shaped their identity, challenged them to grow, and taught them lessons far beyond music.

Next, go inside a color guard sectional where we meet McKinley, the group's caption head — a former student of this very band camp who now returns as an instructor, helping to shape the next generation with the same energy and commitment that once inspired her.

We also have the priveledge to introduce the powerful story of Jaxon Landfair, a beloved former student whose spirit continues to live on in this program. Jaxon’s parents, Jay and Jessica Landfair, join us to share the story of their son — his passion for music, the impact band had on his life, their journey through his Leukemia diagnosis, and the strength it took to stay hopeful through it all. Their words are heartfelt, courageous, and unforgettable.

Whether you're a band parent, student, alumni, or supporter, this episode offers a powerful reminder: band is more than just notes on a page — it's family, resilience, and legacy.

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Inside Band Camp (Part 1)
From the very first moments on Day One, this episode drops you straight into the heart of the quintessential high school marching band experience, BAND CAMP. Captured entirely on location, you’ll hear mic’d-up instructors, section leaders in action, candid student moments, and team-building challenges that set the tone for an unforgettable season.

We’ll step inside visual sessions, drop in on sectionals, and even crash a few surprise workshops—one of which just might feature a cameo from Scott Lang (yes, that Scott Lang... but not how you’re used to hearing him).

Real Sweat. Real Audio. Real Band Kids. Real Band Camp.

Whether you’re a band parent, educator, alum, or curious newcomer—this is the episode that proves: band camp is where it all begins.

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Band Camp isn’t just a warm-up—it is the season. In this episode, Chris and Scott break down why those intense long days of Band Camp matter more than most people realize. Nearly half of your entire marching band season happens during band camp, so what you do with that time can define your program.

We dive into the real purpose behind camp: building culture, teaching students how to learn, and setting the foundation for everything that follows. Plus, we share our three key pieces of advice: Trust the process, play the long game, and get involved.

Whether you’re a parent, student, or band director—this is where the season really starts. Let's dig in. Band Camp is required for your students, so this episode is required for you!

Shout out to the Southmoore High School Band from Moore, Oklahoma for the show intro this week! 

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Season 2 is officially underway, and the Band Dads are back—recharged, re-focused, and ready to roll! In this kickoff episode, we give a special shoutout to the pride of Farmington, Maine, reflect on the key lessons and lasting moments from Season 1, and talk about what still resonates as we grow this podcast community.

With Band Camp in full swing, we're deep in the trenches setting the table for the season ahead. We also tease some exciting things on the horizon—like upcoming guest conversations with band world legends Darrin Davis, Michael Pote, and Donald Wade. Plus, we’re planning a special road trip episode from Southern California in October that you won’t want to miss.

Let’s get loud, get weird, and get better—together. Season 2 starts now!

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Season 1 of the Band Dads Podcast was nothing short of amazing—and it’s all thanks to YOU, our incredible listeners! In this special finale episode, the Band Dads take a moment to reflect on the wild, hilarious, and heartfelt journey of Season 1. From the laughs to the lessons, the support has been overwhelming, and it’s officially set the stage for a massive Season 2—coming your way July 2025!

Get a sneak peek of what’s in store: surprise features, exciting new segments, and some big-name guests that are sure to blow your mind. Season 2 is going bigger, louder, and even more band-tastic than ever before.

Plus—don’t go too far! Bonus episodes are on the way to keep you entertained during the off-season. Until then, feel free to binge all of Season 1… again… and again… and again.

Hit that follow button. The best is yet to come.

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