Shows
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleWestern Art, Identity, and Finding Country Music Far From Nashville - The Real Country Podcast Eps 24 with Jack BrowningIn this episode of Real Country, we sit down with Jack Browning, a British singer-songwriter whose music is deeply influenced by American country, Americana, and the Western way of life, despite being far from Nashville.Jack shares how he first discovered country music in the UK, what drew him to the sounds and stories of the American West, and why authenticity matters more than trends in today’s music industry. We talk songwriting, identity, culture, and what it means to create real country music outside the mainstream system.This conversation explores ho...
2026-01-3051 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleChancey Williams Talks Rodeo, Wyoming, and Making Country Music His Way - The Real Country Podcast, Eps 23In this episode from the Real Country Podcast archives, I sat down with Chancey Williams to talk about a path that looks nothing like the Nashville playbook.Chancey shares his journey from growing up in Wyoming, earning a rodeo scholarship, and living the cowboy life, to building a successful country music career rooted in authenticity, grit, and real fans. We talk about how rodeo and ranch life shaped his songwriting, why staying true to his roots mattered more than chasing trends, and how he built a loyal a...
2026-01-2712 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in Nashville(Archive) Taylor Austin Dye on Building the “Ride or Dye” Fanbase & Her Grand Ole Opry Debut - The Real Country Podcast Eps 22This is a Real Country archive episode featuring rising country artist Taylor Austin Dye, recorded before some of her biggest recent milestones, and it’s one worth revisiting.In this conversation, Taylor shares her journey from Kentucky roots to building a fiercely loyal “Ride or Dye” fanbase, her blend of Southern rock and country, and what it meant to step onto the Grand Ole Opry stage for the first time. We talk about carving out her own sound, staying authentic in a changing country music landscape, and buildi...
2026-01-2611 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in Nashville(Archive) Sophie Gault on Americana, Mental Health, and Writing the Songs No One Wants to Talk About - The Real Country Podcast Eps 21In this episode of The Real Country Podcast from the archives, I'm again live for The Carter Studio Sessions! I sat down with Americana singer-songwriter Sophie Gault for a deeply honest conversation about music, mental health, and writing songs that don’t shy away from uncomfortable truths.Sophie talks about the long road to releasing her sophomore album, Baltic Street Hotel (out September 20 of 2024), and what it took to keep going after nearly walking away from music altogether. She reflects on her early days, the confidence she regained after releasing her debut record, and...
2026-01-2428 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in Nashville(Archive) From Orlando to Nashville & the Making of a Modern Americana Artist - Zach Meadows on the Real Country Podcast Eps 20In this episode of The Real Country Podcast, from the archives, I'm showcasing my first artist on The Carter Studio Sessions. I sat down with rising Americana artist Zach Meadows for an honest conversation about songwriting, Nashville, and taking the long road as an independent artist.Zach shares his journey from growing up in Orlando, Florida, to finding his sound in the Carolinas, and ultimately committing fully to music by moving to Nashville. He opens up about his background in musical theater, how songwriting became his true creative outlet...
2026-01-2432 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in Nashville(Archive) Willi Carlisle on Folk Music, Belonging, and Why Sincerity Still Matters - The Real Country Podcast Eps 19 with Willi CarlisleFrom the archives, recorded during a pivotal moment in his career, this conversation features Willi Carlisle reflecting on folk music, belonging, and what it means to make art for real people, not algorithms.In this episode, Willi talks through his Opry debut, his complicated relationship with musical institutions, and why folk music, at its core, is about people singing together, telling the truth, and bridging loneliness. He traces his path from punk scenes to traditional folk spaces, discusses learning instruments out of necessity, and explains how songwriting, literature, and lived experience shape his records.
2026-01-2038 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in Nashville(Archive) The 'Underdog' Who Built a 20+ Year Country Music Career - Real Country Podcast Eps 18 With Aaron WatsonFrom the archives. Recorded in early 2024, this conversation captures Aaron Watson in rare, unfiltered form before playing in Indianapolis, reflecting on more than 20 years of building an independent country music career on his own terms.In this episode, Aaron breaks down how country music has changed over the past two decades, why social media creates faster fame but shorter careers, and what it really takes to play the long game as an artist. He shares how staying independent allowed him to own his songwriting, protect his brand, and release multiple top-10 B...
2026-01-1414 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in Nashville(Archive) Tanner Usrey on Playing the Ryman, Betting Everything on Music, and Letting Songs Be What They Are - Real Country Eps 17 With Tanner UsreyFrom the archives: Recorded in November 2023, just hours before his first-ever performance at the Ryman Auditorium, this past conversation captures Tanner Usrey at a true turning point.In this episode, Tanner sits down backstage in Nashville to talk about betting everything on music, leaving a “real job” behind, and letting songs become what they’re meant to be without forcing them into a genre box. We discuss his release of 'Beautiful Lies' collab with Ella Langley, and 'Crossing Lines' album.We dig into his Texas roots, the songwriting influences that shaped him (from Jason I...
2026-01-1307 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleJust Start: How Eddie Marange Built a Career in Country Music by Showing Up - The Real Country Podcast Vol 16Nothing changes until you start.In this episode of Real Country, Nikki sits down with Eddie Marange a country music creator and photographer/videographer, to talk about what it really takes to build a career in country music and social media without connections, shortcuts, or overnight success.Eddie shares his journey from law enforcement to working alongside country artists, how he grew a large platform simply by showing up consistently, and why most people quit long before things begin to work. They unpack the realities of social media growth, building a personal brand...
2025-12-2943 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Vol 15 - Lane SmithLane Smith is an emerging country music singer-songwriter from Texas who started as a bullfighter! In this episode of the Real Country Podcast, we discuss his inspirations, goals for his career, how he writes songs, and his entire journey from rodeo...to the country music stage. Thanks for listening! Tune in every week when we release new episodes discussing new music, chatting with artists, and all things country.
2025-12-1137 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Vol 14 - Philip BowenOn this episode of The Real Country Podcast, I’m joined by multi-instrumentalist and viral fiddle sensation Philip Bowen. Known for his electric energy, soulful playing, and mountain roots. We talk about his unconventional path to music, going from a corporate day job to a full-time artist, and what it’s been like building a fanbase from scratch through social media, songwriting, and sheer authenticity.We also dive into his Appalachian upbringing, what inspires his songwriting, and how he’s carving out a space in the modern country/Americana world that’s both deeply rooted a...
2025-08-3140 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Volume 13 - Kelsey WaldonWestern Kentucky native and singer‑songwriter Kelsey Waldon has earned a loyal following for her honest, no‑nonsense lyrics and her commitment to real country music. Raised in the farming town of Monkey’s Eyebrow and steeped in bluegrass and honky‑tonk, Kelsey blends raw storytelling with a voice that cuts straight to the heart. After years of working odd jobs and paying dues in Nashville’s clubs, she’s now a critically acclaimed artist whose albums, including her new one Every Ghost, showcase life’s highs and lows with grit and grace.In this interview, we div...
2025-08-1527 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Vol 12 - With B.J. JamisonCountry singer-songwriter and Nebraska native, B.J. Jamison, vows to put the twang back in today's country music...and he's just in his early 20s.Being born to rodeo royalty, B.J. has been at it since a very young age, even running into issues while playing at honky tonks while he was under 21! His voice and songs are what country gold is made of, and we discussed the possibility of a new upcoming album. He also just released a recent single, Listen to Hank, which is a MUST listen.In this interview, we...
2025-07-2928 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Volume 11 - Hayden RedwineCowboy and West Texas Native Hayden Redwine has ranching and cowboying in his blood from as far back as he can remember.Growing up in the cowboy lifestyle, working cattle, and competing in rodeos, Hayden blends country and western music into a highly recognizable style all his own.The recent release of his album 'Spade', easily one of my top 10 albums of the year so far, shows he can write stories and sing songs about his personal experiences, which make you feel like he's lived many more lives than how old he is....
2025-07-0924 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Volume 10 - Jesse Daniel & Benjamin TodJesse Daniel & Benjamin Tod: Redemption Through Country Music | Real Country PodcastIn this powerful episode, two of the most respected voices in independent country music, Jesse Daniel and Benjamin Tod, sit down with me for a raw, heartfelt conversation about life, addiction, recovery, and how music (and the right relationships) gave them both a second chance.Both artists have walked a hard road, battling addiction, homelessness, and hopelessness before turning their pain into powerful songwriting and storytelling. What emerged is a shared story of redemption and change that’s as gritty as it is inspiring to...
2025-06-2843 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Volume 9 - JD ClaytonJD Clayton on Making Music His Way, Nashville Life, and Fatherhood | Real Country PodcastIn this episode of The Real Country Podcast, we sit down with rising country/blues-rock singer-songwriter JD Clayton for an honest, laid-back conversation about life, music, and everything in between.JD opens up about his journey into country music, from growing up in Arkansas to nearly pursuing a totally different career path. We talk about what it was like moving to Nashville, self-producing his own record, and the importance of staying true to his sound in...
2025-06-1126 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Volume 8 - Sterling DrakeOn this episode of the Real Country Podcast, I sat down with artist Sterling Drake.Sterling is living a life that many people dream of...and writing authentic country music songs about it too.With a brand new album just released, Sterling is a tried and true cowboy, now a resident of Montana. He spends most of his time in country music or advocating for land conservation. Follow Sterling here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3EhNTeJuyK3nLYjkXZtPPC?si=xuGHNcQESfOddjM_IKHXqgSubscribe for more country music stories!Thanks for listening! T...
2025-05-1137 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Volume 7 - Naomi JohnsonOn this episode of the Real Country Podcast, I sat down with artist Naomi Johnson. She just released her first solo single, Bricks Make Houses, and has a heck of a story to go along with it.Growing up with 11 siblings on just one bus, she and her family travelled the country, in and out of cults, camps, and a minimal way of life.She figured out music was her thing, and the rest was history. Watch the entire story here! https://youtu.be/L2RZSAXa3PA...
2025-04-2435 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Volume 6 - Lily MeolaLily Meola won over hearts with her America's Got Talent appearance, singing an original song, Daydream, which now has almost 100 million streams.Now working on her upcoming full-length album, I sit down with Lily to discuss her new music, growing up in Hawaii, her love for horses, and more.Growing up in HawaiiLosing her mother and the things they shared togetherGetting started in musicAppearing on AGTHow horses are therapeutic to herKnowing and working with Lukas NelsonHer...
2025-04-2117 min
Outside The Round w/ Matt BurrillNikki Cohn-Byrd: Neo-Traditional Country, Nashville’s Evolution, and Discovering Emerging ArtistsOn episode 224 of Outside the Round, we sit down with Nikki Cohn-Byrd aka Nikki In Nashville, for a conversation about the evolution of Nashville’s music scene, the rise of neo-traditional country, and the growing influence of the Texas and Midwest country music movements. Nikki shares insights on balancing passion projects with business, the impact of social media on discovering new artists, and the importance of personal connections in the industry. The discussion highlights the significance of independent artists, the unique sound of Southern rock, and memorable concert experiences that have shaped her journey. From reflecting on life changes to...
2025-02-0757 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Vol 5 - With Cody GentryWelcome back to the Real Country Podcast with Nikki in Nashville. This week we're talking to artist Cody Gentry. Cody is gaining traction with the release of his album Blue Ridge Gold, and also has a new one on the way for 2026! Check him out and smash that subscribe button for more BTS of country music. Thanks for listening! Tune in every week when we release new episodes discussing new music, chatting with artists, and all things country.
2025-01-2943 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Vol 4 - With Justin RossWhat goes perfectly with Texas Country/Rock music? Ghost stories. Justin Ross, headman for Justin Ross and Deadwood Revival who has played with or opened for acts like Aaron Lewis, Everlast, Warrant, Hinder, Fuel, Stoney Larue, and more, joins me today to talk about that exact combo! Playing on the front ends of a new revival of Texas music and rock, we discuss their band Deadwood Revival, how they approach their sound, new music, and a passion project that was quite interesting. Little am I ever left speechless but some of the paranormal stories you'll hear with Ju...
2024-11-161h 13
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Vol 3 with Benjamin TodIn this episode of The Real Country Podcast, I sit down with songwriting troubadour and vivacious storyteller, Benjamin Tod, and his wife Ashley Mae!Frontman of the Lost Dog Street Band, Ben just wrote and released his recent solo album, Shooting Star.Ben's story is popular and inspiring at that, telling a tale of a troubled kid addicted to drugs who found his way to the light through music.Listen to the full thing here where we discuss the story behind his new album, the reuniting of Lost Dog, his upbringing and finding...
2024-10-2158 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Vol 2 - With Caleb CaudleWelcome to the Real Country Podcast where we talk with artists from country music and country adjacent genres who are keeping the more traditional sound alive. From independent artists to those who bring the 'classic' back to mainstream, you'll get them here.In episode 2 I talk to singer/songwriter of the country/folk/blues/Americana (haha) influence, Caleb Caudle. As of this date he just released his 6th LP album, Sweet Critters.We talk:His life growing up in musicSome upcoming milestone dates including an Opry DebutHis new album Sweet...
2024-08-3024 min
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in NashvilleThe Real Country Podcast Vol 1 - with Adara Kay MusicWelcome to the first episode of The Real Country Podcast where we talk all things country music, mostly about your non-mainstream, non-radio artists who are crushing it as independent musicians or in a subgenre that's often overlooked. This week we're talking to Texas country rock and roll powerhouse Adara Kay Music. We discuss her career thus far, how she balances that and every other aspect of her life, why she pushed forward the want to quit, and much more!Make sure you follow her on all streaming platforms - https://open.spotify.com/artist/6u0U1hiYr3...
2024-06-2239 min
Career Blindspot068 Heads Up Health with Nikki Cohn-Byrd"If you're into health" - Nikki Cohn-Byrd CBQ - "How do you know when you're NOT feeling good?" Nikki Cohn-Byrd joins today and we discuss how our health tracking is a huge opportunity to performing at our best. Nikki leads the partnerships, strategy, and community teams at Heads Up Health, an early-stage digital health tech venture improving health through lifestyle data optimization. Pre-Order A New Mindset Heads Up Health App
2020-11-1137 min
Heads Up AdviserHow To Eat Your Way To SuccessDid you ever think that your immune system, energy, productivity, and results of the day can be dependent on what you ate for breakfast?It's no news that a healthy mind can only live in a healthy body. However, most diets and meal plans do not take into consideration that people could have a JOB and a busy schedule... We've decided to fix this unfortunate misunderstanding between the healthy lifestyle coaches and insurance brokers, and invited Nikki Cohn-Byrd, who understands both sides of the story. Nikki is the CEO of Welliance America, with a back...
2020-04-2029 min
Freedom Through CoachingFreedom Through Coaching Episode 5: Interview With Health Coach Nikki Cohn-Byrd I truly believe the best way to achieve FREEDOM (time, financial, geographical, etc.) is to leverage the power of COACHING.
The weekly Freedom Through Coaching Podcast will walk you through what I call The 5-Freedom Framework... which is basically the 5 steps needed to create, grow and scale your coaching program.
The 5-Freedom Framework is 1) Create, 2) Market, 3) Coach, 4) Administer and 5) Scale.
Each episode will focus on delivering value pertaining to one of these 5 components.
In this podcast episode, we have special guest Nikki Cohn-Byrd. Nikki is a health and wellness coach focused on help...
2019-06-1018 min
Profiting From Your Passion#107: How Physical and Business Health MeetTo perform your best you’ve got to operate at your best and today’s guest reiterates the importance of taking care of your health.
Nikki Cohn-Byrd from Welliance America joins us with a blast of enthusiasm to tell her awesome story and reminds us why it’s not enough to work your fingers to the bone. There has to be a season of rest and an emphasis on physical health.
You can reach out to Nikki or follow her at:
www.nikkicohnbyrd.com
www.facebook.com/liveitlifestylenikki
www.instagram.com/nikkicohnbyrd
www.nikkicohnbyrd.com/bl...
2019-04-0832 min