Alison interviews opera singer Heidi Schneider about classical music in modern times and the continuing evolution of music. Ever the professional, Heidi remains congenial when Cake’s “Opera Singer” is foisted upon her. 

Alison and Shannon Furtak misunderstand each other re. the research assignment. But don't worry, in true friend form, they navigate the terrain with a discussion about Saraswati and Lady Gaga. Other topics include creativity, family, and thriving during tough times.

Alison meets with bassist, guitarist, and producer Ben Clarke to talk about the balance between making a living and having a creative outlet - and how Ben has made that happen throughout his career. They also touch on a few deep, difficult topics that are best discussed under an umbrella of hope.

Alison sits down with longtime friend Brian Platter, the founder and talented shredder for melodic death metal band The Last Reign. They talk about the adaptations required for making music during a global pandemic, legendary guitarists, musical influences, and Brian’s other calling: Cosplaying the Joker. 
http://www.thelastreign.com/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFBq1e430pzSL2mWL2jxV_w

Alison talks with her longtime friend and fellow musician Pamela Ryder about her experiences performing and succeeding in major music-centric cities, including Austin and Nashville. The two also discuss Pamela’s passions, which include improv, yoga, and of course, music—which finds her even when she tries to leave it behind. 

Alison interviews pianist and singer Ann Philippone. The two APs discuss being female artists in what has historically been a male-dominated industry, the great Nina Simone, the Civil Rights movement compared to today’s push for racial justice, and much more.

www.annphilippone.com
Annie performs the song "Without You" on Localized: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/studio-session-ann-philippone-without-you/id1163434316?i=1000385579596

Alison spends some time with  Carole Walker, a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and producer from Cincinnati, Ohio. They discuss myriad topics including activism, lyrical inspiration, the joys of gardening, and how loved ones can give us strength even after they’re gone. 
Watch her video for "Burn (Falling Is Fun)" here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6c4OoNw-OQ

Alison interviews writer and hip-hop artist Chuckie Campbell about his childhood, his creative process, and his music, much of which centers around social justice. From being the first in his family to finish college to unexpectedly booming bar gigs in Idaho, Chuckie's experiences are both fascinating and enlightening.
https://www.chuckiecampbellmusic.com/

Alison talks to metal singer Ryan Skerrett about starting, quitting, and re-starting various forays into music. Ryan schools Alison on Nu Metal and Alison schools Ryan on how there are no quitters here.

In this episode, Alison speaks with RiShon Odel, the masterful bassist who has played with jazz stars and rock stars and gospel stars...He is a producer, writer, and arranger, and we were so happy to catch up with him on a recent evening.