Shows
Lawrence News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!Rachael Lackey Honored for Indigenous Arts AdvocacyRachael Lackey, a Cherokee Nation member, was honored with a Phoenix Award for her advocacy of Indigenous artists and youth in arts and entrepreneurship. The awards ceremony, held at the Lied Center, marked its 25th anniversary and was held in partnership with the Winter Inclusive Market. Lackey, a USDA Extension Program coordinator, emphasized the importance of visibility for Native American communities. Other recipients included Brandon Eisman, Walt Hull, Jen Unekis, Mark Cowardin, and Nick Carswell, each recognized for their contributions to the arts in Lawrence, Kansas.DNN | The Daily News Now!The world’s first global local ne...
2025-12-1502 minLawrence News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!Lawrence Phoenix Awards Honor Local ArtistsThe City of Lawrence honors six local artists with its Phoenix Awards, recognizing their significant contributions to the communitys arts scene. The honorees include Rachael Lackey, Walt Hull, Jen Unekis, Mark Cowardin, Brandon Eisman (Deja Brooks), and Nick Carswell. The awards ceremony, held at the Lied Center, is free and open to the public on December fourteenth, coinciding with the Winter Inclusive Market. Each recipient receives a custom-made Phoenix Award sculpture by local artist C. Bryan Young.DNN | The Daily News Now!The world’s first global local news network.Every city. Every story. AI po...
2025-11-2501 min
WorktapesEpisode 69 - Stephen Day - MoonshineStephen Day is an accomplished singer/songwriter who has performed with the likes of Teddy Swims, Ben Rector & Stephen Sanchez. His catalogue has produced over 140 million streams, sync placements including Universal Pictures and is currently touring his latest record, “Gold Mine” produced by Micah Tawlks. In this episode of Worktapes we talk about a song he wrote called “Moonshine” and listen to the original worktape as we discuss it. Find Stephen Day Listen to Moonshine Worktapes is Produced by Brandon Carswell Film & Editing by Shaun Carswell This episode was filmed in Nashville, TN Episode intro music wri...
2025-09-1655 minWorktapesEpisode 69 - Stephen Day - MoonshineStephen Day is an accomplished singer/songwriter who has performed with the likes of Teddy Swims, Ben Rector & Stephen Sanchez. His catalogue has produced over 140 million streams, sync placements including Universal Pictures and is currently touring his latest record, “Gold Mine” produced by Micah Tawlks. In this episode of Worktapes we talk about a song he wrote called “Moonshine” and listen to the original worktape as we discuss it.Find Stephen DayListen to MoonshineWorktapes is Produced by Brandon CarswellFilm & Editing by Shaun CarswellThis episode was filmed in Nashvill...
2025-09-161h 04
WorktapesEpisode 68 - Shelby Means - Streets of BoulderShelby Means is one of the foremost bassists in modern bluegrass. From her GRAMMY-winning work with Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, to her travels with the GRAMMY-nominated band Della Mae, her career has spanned nearly two decades crossing more than 20 countries. She’s also an accomplished songwriter and vocalist, just released her first self tilted solo album this year. In episode 68 of Worktapes we discuss a song she wrote called, “Streets Of Boulder” and listen to the Worktape.Find ShelbyListen to Streets Of BoulderWorktapespodcast.comWorktapes is Produced by Brandon CarswellF...
2025-08-2851 min
The Cluttered Path#21 Brandon Held - From Childhood Trauma, Poverty, and Divorce to a Life of FulfillmentSend us a textWhat happens when childhood trauma becomes your greatest teacher? Brandon Held's life story reads like a manual on resilience -- growing up in poverty, living with an abusive, alcoholic stepfather, losing his infant daughter, multiple failed marriages, surviving a suicide attempt, and emerging not just intact but mentally resilient and determined to help others. Brandon's candid conversation reveals how he broke generational cycles of addiction and abuse. His military service was a good starting point in life while also exposing him to leadership - both exemplary and toxic - that shaped h...
2025-07-311h 04
The Imperfect Dads PodcastEpisode 158 | Brandon Carswell from the podcast WorkTapesOn this episode we have on Brandon Carswell from the podcast WorkTapesWe talk about how he started WorkTapes, a podcast talking to song writers about their writing process, challenges of kids in school during Covid, how he approaches co-parenting, and navigating social media for his sons.Send us a textSupport the showFollow us on Facebook and Instagram @theimperfectdadspodcast . Look for new episodes of The Imperfect Dads Podcast every Monday.
2025-07-2446 min
WorktapesEpisode 67 - Natalie Hemby - CarouselNatalie Hemby secured her first publishing deal at the age of 19, laying the foundation for a stellar career as one of the most sought-after songwriters in the music industry. With her songs recorded by top artists like Kacey Musgraves, Maren Morris, Sheryl Crow, Miranda Lambert, Lady Gaga, Yola, Dierks Bentley, Rag'n'Bone Man, Lady A, Kelly Clarkson, Little Big Town, Labrinth, and many others, she has proven herself to be an undeniable talent. In 2021, she released her second solo album, Pins and Needles, produced by her husband and longtime collaborator, Mike Wrucke. As part of The Highwomen, alongside Brandi Carlile, Maren...
2025-06-201h 04
WorktapesEpisode 66 - Anthony Smith - TomorrowAnthony Smith is a versatile songwriter, producer and arranger who has achieved great success in many genres, including Country, Pop, R&B, and Jazz. His songs have been recorded by Bucky Covington, Lonestar, Clay Walker, Rodney Atkins, Chris Young, Reba McIntire, Vince Gill, Emerson Drive, Heartland, Donna Summer, Kenny Rogers to name a few. In this episode we discuss a smash #1 hit song nominated at the 2012 ACM Awards for single of the year, “Tomorrow” by Chris Young and we will listen to the original worktape of that song.Find AnthonyListen to TomorrowAds...
2025-04-141h 12
WorktapesEpisode 65 - Dave Barnes - Someday This Will All Make SenseWith nearly 30 years of songwriting under his belt, Dave Barnes has carved his own path through rock, acoustic, country, soul, and contemporary Christian music. Over the years, he’s collaborated with a star-studded list of artists, including Amy Grant, Matt Wertz, Carrie Underwood, Thomas Rhett, and Maren Morris. He also earned a Grammy nomination for his hit song "God Gave Me You," which was recorded by Blake Shelton making it a #1 hit. In this episode we discuss his early grunge music influences, moving from playing drums into songwriting, how comedy informs his songwriting , and we listen to the worktape of hi...
2025-03-311h 23
WorktapesEpisode 64 - Mat Kearney - Headlights HomeKnown for his distinct blend of pop, folk, and hip-hop, Mat Kearney has created a unique sound that has led to hits like “Nothing Left to Lose” and “Trainwreck,” which contributed to his 2006 Dove Award win. He has toured with John Mayer, Sheryl Crow, Train, Mutemath, Keane, and more. His collaborations include artists like Trent Dabbs, Kate York, Paul Moak, Matthew Perryman Jones, Brooke and The Bluff, and Micah Tawlks. In this episode, we discuss his early hip-hop influences, life-transforming grace that informed his writing, working with Brooke & The Bluff, and listen to early worktapes of the song “Headlights Home.”F...
2025-02-281h 05
WorktapesEpisode 63 - Matt Wertz - RosaleeMatt Wertz, is an indie singer-songwriter whose soulful pop tunes have struck a chord with audiences worldwide. With his signature feel good indie rock-pop, Matt crafts songs that combine catchy melodies with nostalgic undertones. Throughout his career, he’s shared the stage with icons like Dave Barnes, Thad Cockrell, Jason Mraz, Ben Rector, and Gavin DeGraw, solidifying his place as a standout in today’s singer-songwriter scene. In this episode we discuss early influences, his newest record, “Recently”, spotify for artists and we listen to the worktape of a song he co-wrote with Jon Foreman called “Rosalee”Find Matt Wertz
2025-02-171h 30
WorktapesEpisode 62 - Nathan Barlowe - Feed Your FeelingsNathan Barlowe is a talented multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer, best known for his work as a member of the bands Luna Halo, Five Knives, Reality Check, Honeymoon Thrillers and Keith Urban’s band as a touring musician. His music has been recorded by high-profile artists like Taylor Swift, Steven Tyler, Keith Urban, and Newsboys. Nathan has also achieved significant success in the dance music scene, with three top 10 Billboard dance singles to his name. His song placements include The Voice, American Idol, in Apple commercials, NHL Stanley Cup, the theme song for the final season of King of Queens. He is...
2025-02-1047 min
WorktapesEpisode 61 - Clay Mills - Beautiful MessClay Mills is a Grammy nominated songwriter with cuts by Darius Rucker, Trisha Yearwood, Little Big Town, Lady A, Diamond Rio and more. When he’s not writing he is mentoring writers through Songtown, an organization he co-founded with hit writer Marty Dodson, offering a songwriting masterclass, community building and mentorship. In this episode we talk about how he came writing jingles in NYC, not giving up and his huge number one song cut by Diamond Rio, “Beautiful Mess”Find Clay MillsListen to Beautiful MessSongtown Worktapes is Produced by Brandon Carswell...
2025-02-031h 02
WorktapesEpisode 60 - Thad Cockrell - What IfThad Cockrell has been writing music for over 20 years, both under his own name and with his band, Leagues. His musical resume is nothing short of impressive, with co-writes and collaborations with artists like Joy Williams, Devon Gilfillian, Brittany Howard, Sandra McCracken, and many more. He’s also contributed to Super Bowl ads, film placements, pub deals, and even made a guest appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. In this first episode of Season 4, we discuss what it’s like to start a musical career later in life, his experience on The Tonight Show, forging a new path away...
2025-01-241h 28
WorktapesEpisode 59 - Hannah Aldridge - The Great DivideIn episode 59 of Worktapes, we are joined by Muscle Shoals native, singer-songwriter, and rock-Americana artist Hannah Aldridge. Her writing explores themes of rebellion and the allure of spiritual darkness while grappling with deeply rooted Southern Christian values. In this episode, we discuss growing up as the daughter of hit songwriter Walt Aldridge, what draws her to darker themes, how to stay authentic in an industry that prioritizes hit songs, and we listen to the original worktape of her song “The Great Divide.”Find Hannah Aldridge Listen to "The Great Divide" Produced by Brandon Carswe...
2025-01-101h 03
WorktapesEpisode 58 - Kylie Dailey - Folded HandsIn episode 58 of Worktapes, we hear from indie folk singer-songwriter and Epidemic Sound artist Kylie Dailey! Kylie’s calming, laid-back vocals and relatable lyrics, paired with enchanting arrangements by producer and husband Kevin, invite the listener to relax and feel seen. We discuss the dynamics of writing with your spouse, unintentionally becoming an artist, writing authentically while balancing family, and we listen to the original worktape of a song called “Folded Hands.”Find KylieListen to Folded HandsProduced by Brandon CarswellFilm & Editing by Shaun Carswell Episode intro music written by Brand...
2025-01-0359 min
WorktapesEpisode 57 - Leeland & Jack Mooring - PT 2 - Still MightyLeeland Mooring is a Texas-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist with seven albums, four GRAMMY® nominations, and eight GMA Dove Award® nominations. LEELAND have become one of the most significant and standout voices in a new generation of worship music. In part 2 of this interview we we are joined by Jack Mooring who is an author, pastor and co-founder of the band Leeland. We discuss biblical worship writing vs emotive writing, modern vs. puritan worship songs, The Power Team, a word on Christmas music from Brother Terry and we listen to the worktape of Leeland’s song “Still Mighty”.Find Leel...
2024-12-211h 02
WorktapesEpisode 56 - Leeland Mooring - Still Mighty - PT 1Leeland Mooring is a Texas-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist with seven albums, four GRAMMY® nominations, and eight GMA Dove Award® nominations. LEELAND have become one of the most significant and standout voices in a new generation of worship music. In part 1 of this interview we hear about how Leeland started writing songs and touring at a young age, amazing and hilarious church stories and what shaped hi musical influence. Stayed tuned for Part 2 with Leeland coming soon!Find LeelandListen to Still MightyEpisode sponsor: Artist AndProduced by...
2024-12-1451 min
WorktapesEpisode 55 - Tia Sillers - Be Mine (Flight Attendant)Tia Sillers is a Grammy Award-winning songwriter with #1 hits such as “I Hope You Dance” (Lee Ann Womack) and “Blue on Black” (Kenny Wayne Shepherd). A triple Songwriters Hall of Fame nominee, she has over 40 singles recorded by artists like John Waite, Trisha Yearwood, The Chicks, Five Finger Death Punch, and many more. On this episode of Worktapes, we discuss a song she wrote with the band Flight Attendant called “Be Mine” and share an exclusive listen to the worktape! Find Tia Sillers Find Flight Attendant Listen to Be Mine Listen to I Hope You Dance L...
2024-12-061h 12
WorktapesEpisode 54 - Nicole Witt - KissNicole Witt is an accomplished Nashville-based songwriter and artist, with cuts by George Strait, Lee Brice, Terri Clark, Rodney Atkins, and Ellie Holcomb, just to name a few. In episode 54, we talk to Nicole about how to keep songwriting unique, where her passion for songwriting came from, her band, The Six One Five Collective, and we get to hear an original worktape of a song she wrote with John Paul White (The Civil Wars) called “Kiss.” Find Nicole WittListen to KissArtist AndProduced by Brandon CarswellSpecial thanks to Nick...
2024-11-2259 min
WorktapesEpisode 53 - Elvie Shane - What Do I KnowElvie Shane is an accomplished singer-songwriter, quickly making his mark in Nashville with his authentic lyrics and soulful country sound. In Episode 53, we discuss Elvie’s appearance on American Idol, his time preaching as an evangelist, and we hear the original work tape of his song, “What Do I Know.”Find Elvie ShaneListen to "What Do I Know" Produced by Brandon CarswellSpecial thanks to Nick Autry, Sound Stage and Kent Coley for helping with this episode! Film & Editing by Shaun Carswell Episode intro music written by Brandon Carswell & produced by...
2024-11-151h 02
WorktapesEpisode 52 - Emma Zinck - Party SongIn Episode 52 we hear from singer, songwriter & ripping guitarist Emma Zinck! We talk about going viral on social media, writing what you feel vs writing commercial and we listen to the original worktape of “Party Song”Find Emma ZinckListen to Party SongThis episode is sponsored by Duke Timeless Spirits and Stories & Sounds Podcast Episode intro music written by Brandon Carswell & produced by Micah Tawlks - "Back To Us" Worktapes show cover art designed by Harrison Hudson **All songs used by permission**
2024-11-081h 07
WorktapesEpisode 51 - Carl Anderson - FriendIn episode 51 we are joing by Nashville based singer-songwriter Carl Anderson. We discuss the pros and cons of profanity in songwriting, how he somewhat casually landed a publish deal, he plays a live song for us at the end and we hear the worktape of his beautiful heart pricking song, "Friend" Find Carl Anderson Listen to FriendThis episode is sponsored by Duke Timeless Spirits and Stories & Sounds Podcast Episode intro music written by Brandon Carswell & produced by Micah Tawlks - "Back To Us" Worktapes show cover art designed by Harrison Hudson **All...
2024-11-011h 16
WorktapesEpisode 50 - Abner Ramirez - Johnnyswim - MoonlightEPISODE 50! A special episode celebrating a major milestone! In this episode, we talk to Abner Ramirez of the band Johnnyswim. How can songs save your life? Are they merely an art form, or do they carry something more spiritual, mystical, or universal? Can a song bring two people destined for each other closer together? Abner has the answers. For this special 50th episode, we get an exclusive listen to Abner and Amanda as they write the title track for their 2019 album, Moonlight. Find Johnnyswim Listen to "Moonlight" Watch The Johnnyswim Show on MAX
2024-10-251h 13
WorktapesEpisode 49 - The Young Fables - Daddy's GirlIn episode 49 of Worktpes we are joined by Wes Lunsford & Laurel Wright of The Young Fables! We discuss writing songs at early ages, how songwriting can be healing through heavy loss and suffering, their documentary, " The Fable of a Song" and we hear the orginal worktape of their song, "Daddy's Girl" Find The Young FablesListen to Daddy's GirlWatch The Fable of a SongThis episode is sponsored by Duke Timeless Spirits and Stories & Sounds PodcastThis episode was recorded at Sound Stage Studios in Nashville, TN
2024-10-1846 min
WorktapesEpisode 48 - Brad Sample - Getaway DriverIn episode 48 of Worktapes we talk to songwriter, guitarist and recent contestant on The Voice, Brad Sample. We discuss growing up in Nashville, tackle the subject of being the sideman vs the artist dream and listen to the original Worktape of his song "Getaway Driver.Find Brad SampleListen to Getaway DriverThis episode is sponsored by Duke Timeless Spirits and Stories & Sounds PodcastEpisode intro music written by Brandon Carswell & produced by Micah Tawlks - "Back To Us" Worktapes show cover art designed by Harrison Hudson **All songs used by...
2024-10-111h 19
WorktapesEpisode 47 - Matt Damron - Waiting On A BreakthroughIn episde 47 of Worktapes all the way the Province of Quebec we are joind by writer/producer, Matt Damron. Matt and Brandon have been friends for nearly 25 years and bring up some inside stories, joint musical endevors, not giving up on a song until it done and listen to the original worktape of Matt's song, "Waiting On A Breakthrough". Find Matt Damron Listen to "Waiting On A Breakthrough" Listen to Matt & Brandon's joint project, Nice DreamsThis episode is sponsored by Duke Timeless Spirits and Stories & Sounds PodcastEpisode intro musi...
2024-10-041h 13
WorktapesEpisode 46 - Sam Outlaw - Someone Quite Like YouIn episode 46 of Worktapes we talk to Americana Award winner Sam Outlaw! We discuss making records with produce Cheyenne Medders, what brought Sam from Southern California to Nashville and we listen to the original worktape of his hit song, "Someone Quite Like You" Find Sam OutlawListen to "Someone Quite Like You" This episode is sponsored by Duke Timeless Spirits and Stories & Sounds PodcastEpisode intro music written by Brandon Carswell & produced by Micah Tawlks - "Back To Us" Worktapes show cover art designed by Harrison Hudson **All songs used...
2024-09-271h 09
WorktapesEpisode 45 - Kevin Dailey - Hey LoverIn Episode 45, we are joined by Grammy Award-winning composer, producer, mixer, and songwriting multi-instrumentalist Kevin Dailey! We discuss his dad's musical influence on him, how to stay organized and engaged in the writing process, and we listen to the original worktape of his beautiful song, "Hey Lover."Listen to "Hey Lover"Find Garden FriendFind Kevin Daileyhttps://www.kevindaileymusic.com/This episode is sponsored by Duke Timeless Spirits and Stories & Sounds PodcastEpisode intro music written by Brandon Carswell & produced by Micah Tawlks - "Back T...
2024-09-201h 11
DWMODBig6Picks '24 Week 3It's #DWMODpod #Big6Picks week 3 and this weeks guest picker is Brandon Carswell! former #USCTrojans WR who also played with the #Raiders #49ers we're talking about playing for Pete Caroll, Jim Harbough signing him, Playing with Mark Sanchez and a whole lot more in "Quick Hits" "Knock it off" and the Big6Picks!
2024-09-191h 49
WorktapesEpisode 44 - Kent Coley | Brandon Carswell - 110In episode 44, Kent Coley flips the script by asking to interview Worktapes show host Brandon Carswell. Kent has been in the music industry for over 25 years, working with labels like Forefront and bands like Leeland. He has experience in publishing, production, and management, and is an all-around wonderful human being.We discuss the importance of not giving up on a song you believe in, even if it doesn’t have commercial appeal. We also talk about the mysterious dynamics of being in a band with your sibling, and we hear the original, nearly 20-year-old worktape of Brandon's song "110."
2024-09-131h 03
WorktapesEpisode 43 - Joe Nash - When You Got A Good OneIn episode 43 we sit down with Joe Nash at the world renowned Sound Stage Studio in Nashville to talk about his time in "Watson & Nash", the imprtance of having a back up plan while persuing your art, and we listen to to original worktape of his latest song "When You Got A Good One" Find Joe Nash Listen to "When You Got A Good One" Special thanks to Nick Autry, Sound Stage and Kent Coley for helping with this episode! This episode is sponsored by Duke Timeless Spirits Episode intro mus...
2024-09-071h 03WorktapesEpisode 43 - Joe Nash - When You Got A Good OneIn episode 43 we sit down with Joe Nash at the world renowned Sound Stage Studio in Nashville to talk about his time in "Watson & Nash", the imprtance of having a back up plan while persuing your art, and we listen to to original worktape of his latest song "When You Got A Good One" Find Joe NashListen to "When You Got A Good One" Special thanks to Nick Autry, Sound Stage and Kent Coley for helping with this episode! This episode is sponsored by Duke Timeless Spirits
2024-09-051h 00
WorktapesEpisode 42 - Cheyenne Medders - O My GoodnessIn episode 42 we are joined by guitarist, producer and songwriter Cheyenne Medders. We discuss writing songs as a teenager, playing in a band with his brothers, writing with The Secret Sisters and hearing the worktapes of Cheyenne's song "O My Goodnes"Hear "O My Goodness"Find CheyenneHear "The Damage" by The Secret SistersThis episode is sponsored by Duke Timeless Spirits Episode intro music written by Brandon Carswell & produced by Micah Tawlks - "Back To Us"Worktapes show cover art designed by Harrison Hudson
2024-08-3058 min
WorktapesEpisode 41 - Common Man - Can I Know YouIn episode 41 we are joined by indie alt pop (not neo folk) duo Common Man. We discus what it's like being married while being in a band together, the importance of being your self and defining the culture of your art, we define what "neo folk" even is...(or we try) and we hear the worktape of a wonderful single called "Can I Know You". Find Common ManListen to Can I Know You Neofolk, also known as dark folk, folk noir, or apocalyptic folk, is a musical genre that mixes traditional folk roc...
2024-08-231h 07
WorktapesEpisode 40 - Jonas Litton - Good Mourning (Stories & Sounds)In episode 40 we hear from Nashville native Jonas Litton about how we met in prison, busking in his teens, his new podcast Stories & Sounds and we hear the worktape of a song he wrote called Good Mourning. Find Jonas Litton Listen to Good Mourning Listen to Stories & SoundsEpisode intro music written by Brandon Carswell & produced by Micah Tawlks - "Back To Us"Worktapes show cover art designed by Harrison Hudson**All songs used by permission**
2024-08-161h 18