The Raised Rowdy Podcast

In this episode of The Raised Rowdy Podcast, host Nick Tressler welcomes back recurring guest Colby Acuff for one of the podcast's most in-depth conversations yet, diving into the intersection of songwriting, branding, and the ever-changing music industry. Colby shares how he's embraced content creation as another creative outlet, explaining the strategy behind his viral social media approach, why authenticity always wins over chasing trends, and how building a sustainable fanbase requires far more than one viral moment. The conversation explores the evolution of streaming, algorithms, independent artistry, and the importance of continually reinventing yourself while staying true to your identity. Colby also reflects on the success of his latest album, balancing art with business, the realities of touring, and why creating music that genuinely excites him is the key to building a career that lasts. Whether you're an artist, songwriter, or simply fascinated by today's music landscape, this episode is packed with valuable insights from one of country music's most thoughtful voices

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Colby Acuff: @colbyacuff

Nick Tressler (Nicky T): @raisedrowdynick

Raised Rowdy Podcast: @raisedrowdypodcast

Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

On Episode 278 of the Raised Rowdy Podcast, host Nick Tressler is joined by Matt Burrill and Ike Everard for a special behind-the-scenes festival check-in after spending the first half of the summer on the road. From Rock the Country and Tailgate N' Tallboys to Country Concert and Auburn Rodeo, the Raised Rowdy crew shares what they've learned from experiencing festivals from every angle as fans, vendors, media, hosts and backstage partners. They break down the artists who are making the biggest impact, why live performances matter more than ever, and the trends shaping country music's future. The guys also discuss the rise of country rap, the evolution of festival crowds, why artists like Jay Webb, Treaty Oak Revival, Cameron Whitcomb and Graham Barham are connecting in a major way, and what separates good live performers from future superstars. Plus, they share some of their favorite moments from the road, stories from backstage, and why country festivals remain one of the best experiences in live music. Whether you're a festival veteran or planning your first one, this episode is an inside look at the culture, community, and artists driving country music forward in 2026.

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Nick Tressler: @raisedrowdynick

Matt Burrill: @raisedrowdymatt

Ike Everard: @ike.everard

Raised Rowdy Podcast: @raisedrowdypodcast

Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

On Episode 277 of the Raised Rowdy Podcast, hosts Nick Tressler and Matt Burrill sit down with one of country music's most authentic rising voices, Wesko. Fresh off the release of his Familiar Spirits EP and hard at work on his debut full-length album, Wesko opens up about the stories behind his music, why authenticity matters more than trends, and the creative direction that's shaping the next chapter of his career. From growing up in the swamps of eastern North Carolina to writing with some of Nashville's most respected songwriters, Wesko shares how faith, family, blue-collar roots and honest storytelling continue to fuel everything he creates. The conversation dives into his breakout songs like "Hunting Ghosts," opening for artists like 49 Winchester and Warren Zeiders, unforgettable moments with Luke Combs and Eric Church following Hurricane Helene relief efforts, and why he's determined to bring heartfelt American rock and country storytelling back to the forefront. If you're a fan of artists like Eric Church, Bruce Springsteen, Zach Bryan, or 49 Winchester, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

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Wesko: @itswesko

Nick Tressler: @raisedrowdynick

Matt Burrill: @raisedrowdymatt

Raised Rowdy Podcast: @raisedrowdypodcast

Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In this episode of The Raised Rowdy Podcast, hosts Nick Tressler and Matt Burrill sit down with rising country artist Tyce Delk during the chaos of CMA Fest week to talk about his rapid rise, life on the road, and the journey from small-town Texas and New Mexico gigs to some of the biggest festival stages in country music. Tyce shares stories from his musical upbringing, the influence of his family's multi-generational music legacy, and the work ethic that has helped shape his career. The conversation dives into the success of fan-favorite songs like "Adeline," the challenges of standing out in today's crowded music landscape, and the importance of building a loyal fanbase through relentless touring and authentic connections. Tyce also discusses his upcoming EP Everything But Gone, working with producers Ryan Youmans, Anderson East, and Lucas Scott, the excitement surrounding his upcoming Grand Ole Opry debut, and why staying genuine with fans remains at the center of everything he does. From festival memories and road stories to songwriting, family, and the next chapter of his career, this episode offers an inside look at one of country music's fastest-rising artists.

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Tyce Delk: @tycedelk

Nick Tressler: @raisedrowdynick

Matt Burrill: @raisedrowdymatt

Raised Rowdy Podcast: @raisedrowdypodcast

Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In this episode of The Raised Rowdy Podcast, hosts Nicky T and Kurt Ozan welcome back Austin Snell for a conversation about growth, songwriting, life on the road, and the evolution of his sound. Austin reflects on his journey from posting cover songs while serving in the military to building a successful touring career, sharing how Nashville friendships, social media, and a willingness to break the mold helped shape his path. The conversation dives into his latest EP Colors, a deeply personal project that explores mental health, relationships, family, and self-reflection while showcasing a more vulnerable side of his songwriting. Austin opens up about the stories behind songs like "Colors" and "Daddy's Eyes," the impact fans have had on his creative direction, and why authenticity continues to be the driving force behind his music. The episode also covers festival season, balancing high-energy live shows with emotional storytelling, his recent engagement, and what's next as he heads back into the studio to create new music.

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Austin Snell: @austinsnellmusic

Nick Tressler: @raisedrowdynick

Kurt Ozan: @kurtozan251

Raised Rowdy Podcast: @raisedrowdypodcast

Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In this episode of The Raised Rowdy Podcast, hosts Nick Tressler and Kurt Ozan sit down with Kustom Entertainment CEO Stan Ross and longtime Nashville musician Charlie "Chopper" Anderson for an inside look at the business behind live music, festivals, and fan experiences. Stan shares the story of launching Kustom Entertainment and Kustom Tickets, his vision for building a more transparent ticketing platform, and the future growth plans for the company's rapidly expanding festival portfolio. Chopper reflects on his decades-long career as a touring and session musician, including time spent performing alongside legends like Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, Vince Gill, and Johnny Rodriguez. The conversation dives deep into the evolution of festival culture, the importance of creating memorable experiences for both artists and fans, and the challenges of operating large-scale events. Stan also discusses the 30-year legacy of Country Stampede, how Eric Church stepped in to save the festival after Luke Bryan's illness, and Kustom Entertainment's plans to expand into new markets and genres. From ticketing transparency and artist hospitality to camping culture and the future of live entertainment, this episode offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build unforgettable music experiences.

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Stan Ross: @kustomentertainment
Charlie Anderson: @chopperanderson
Kustom Entertainment: @kustomentertainment
Country Stampede: @countrystampede
Nick Tressler (Nicky T): @raisedrowdynick
Kurt Ozan: @kurtozan251
Raised Rowdy Podcast: @raisedrowdypodcast
Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In this episode of The Raised Rowdy Podcast, hosts Kurt Ozan and Nick Tressler catch up with Tennessee native Larry Fleet to discuss his latest album Another Year Older, life on the road, songwriting, fatherhood, and staying true to who he is in an ever-changing music industry. Larry shares stories about raising his kids, his family's love of Mexican food (including a dog named Cheese Dip), and how growing up in a small town continues to shape both his music and worldview. He also opens up about producing Another Year Older himself, stripping back the production to focus on storytelling, and creating a record that reflects faith, family, hard work, love, loss, and the everyday experiences that connect people from all walks of life. Along the way, Larry dives into the realities of today's touring market, the importance of authentic live performances, his thoughts on AI tools like Suno, and why he believes country music should always feel personal and relatable. The conversation also touches on touring internationally, the success of “Where I Find God,” mentoring younger artists like Dasher, and appreciating every stage of the journey—from sleeping in a Winnebago and selling merch for gas money to selling out theaters around the country. It's a candid, funny, and heartfelt conversation with one of country music's most genuine storytellers.

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Larry Fleet: @larryfleet
Kurt Ozan: @kurtozan251
Nick Tressler (Nicky T): @raisedrowdynick
Raised Rowdy Podcast: @raisedrowdypodcast
Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In this episode of The Raised Rowdy Podcast, hosts Kurt Ozan and Nick Tressler sit down with rising country artist Ashley Anne to talk about her deeply personal new EP Generational Heartbreak, navigating life as a young artist in Nashville, and learning how to stay authentic in an industry that constantly pushes artists to fit a mold. Ashley opens up about the inspiration behind songs like “Love Looks Like,” “Happy Birthday,” and “Paloma,” sharing vulnerable stories about family trauma, relationships, friendship, and healing from the past while trying to build a future. She also dives into the importance of female friendships in country music, her experiences touring with artists like Avery Anna and Max McNown, and the emotional rollercoaster of chasing a music career while hearing both “yes” and “no” along the way. The conversation also touches on finding confidence in her own artistry, embracing her Virginia Beach roots, going viral online, receiving encouragement from Luke Combs, and preparing to open for Zach Top in her hometown arena. Ashley’s honesty, self-awareness, and passion for connecting with fans make this one of the most heartfelt and inspiring episodes yet.

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Ashley Anne: @ashleyannemusic
Kurt Ozan: @kurtozan251
Nick Tressler (Nicky T): @raisedrowdynick
Raised Rowdy Podcast: @raisedrowdypodcast
Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In this episode of The Raised Rowdy Podcast, hosts Kurt Ozan and Nick Tressler sit down with legendary country artist Clint Black for an in-depth conversation about his new book The Killin’ Time, the stories behind his iconic career, and the mindset that helped shape one of country music’s most respected artists. Clint opens up about the creative process behind writing the memoir, his dedication to artistic integrity, and why staying true to the music always mattered more than chasing trends or commercial expectations. The conversation dives deep into his early days grinding through the Texas music scene, co-writing classics with Hayden Nicholas, recording demos in a garage, and the rapid rise that led to becoming a member of the Grand Ole Opry just a few years after breaking onto the scene. Clint also shares unforgettable stories involving legends like Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, George Jones, and even dinner parties with Hollywood icons during his years living in California with wife Lisa Hartman Black. From surviving difficult label battles and launching his own record company to reflecting on fatherhood, legacy, and the future of country music, Clint delivers one of the most insightful and inspiring conversations the podcast has featured.

Follow on Social Media:

Clint Black: @clint_black
Nick Tressler (Nicky T): @raisedrowdynick
Kurt Ozan: @kurtozan251
Raised Rowdy Podcast: @raisedrowdypodcast
Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In this episode of The Raised Rowdy Podcast, hosts Nick Tressler and Kurt Ozan sit down with rising Texas country artist Braxton Keith to talk about his whirlwind weekend at Stagecoach Festival, including joining Post Malone on stage for a surprise performance of “Cozy.” Braxton dives into his Texas roots, growing up around legendary dance halls and honky tonks, and how traditional country music shaped the sound of his upcoming album Real Damn Deal. The conversation explores balancing modern country success while staying true to classic influences like Merle Haggard, George Strait, and Marty Robbins. Braxton also breaks down fan-favorite songs like “Own This Bar,” the process of building a catalog for live shows, and the importance of grinding it out on the road market by market. From Australian crowds learning every lyric to packed Texas dance halls and upcoming nationwide touring plans, this episode captures an artist fully stepping into the next phase of his career while keeping country music at the center of it all.

Braxton Keith: @braxton.keith
Nick Tressler (Nicky T): @raisedrowdynick
Kurt Ozan: @kurtozan251
Raised Rowdy Podcast: @raisedrowdypodcast
Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy