Shows
The Upful LIFE Podcast090: SHAWN SETARO [COMPLEX] - Unpacking the DIDDY TrialEpisode 090 taps in with renowned hip-hop culture journalist SHAWN SETARO who recently spent 2 WILD Manhattan months courtside at the Sean "DIDDY" Combs trial reporting daily for COMPLEX. Definitely some different topical topography juxtaposed to the norm for this program. Please rest assured, this is a serious conversation; an insightful, illuminating, sobering look into the lengthy legal proceedings & celebrity circus surrounding this salacious sordid saga, and a sad, scary, depraved drug-addled cuck at the center of the chaos he created.
0:00 - episode 090 preview
3:15- Sponsor: AARON SCHWARTZ ART- LETT US PLAY
6:30 - The Upful Update
11:00 - introducing SHAWN SETARO
15:15...2025-07-231h 57
The Upful LIFE Podcast089: MARC BROWNSTEIN [The Disco Biscuits, DJ Brownie] + DAVE MARGULIES [High Sierra Music Fest]Please welcome The Disco Biscuits bassist/co-founder MARC BROWNSTEIN aka DJ BROWNIE to Episode 089, a particularly wide-ranging, illuminating conversation long overdue but undoubtedly over-delivers. Marc has indeed appeared on a plethora of pods; however, this cosmic convergence is a brutally honest, beautiful breaux-down many, many moons in the making. Tapping in from his family home outside Philly, at 51 years young Brownie is vibrant and verbose, footloose and fancy free, embracing a health-is-wealth mindset, feeling reborn on the wheels of steel. Celebrating his pioneering quartet’s 30th anniversary in 2025, whilst confidently co-piloting the Bisco renaissance/revolution in motion. Across nearly 2 ho...2025-06-262h 47
The Upful LIFE Podcast088: DOGS IN A PILE; + Summer Tours n' More w/ JASON ABRAMSBehold the prodigal sons of Asbury Park, NJ! It's a total joy to welcome red-hot buzz band DOGS IN A PILE to the Upful LIFE. This colorful conversation with all 5 members went down mid-Feb. '25, during Jam Cruise 21. Though DOGS are somewhat of a young band, their meteoric ascent certainly shreds for itself. So I wanted a peek behind the curtain, to see what makes these boys tick, and find out what it's like riding a rocketship into jam-scene success. Wrangling together all the Dogs’ cats into one cruise cabin during the biggest rager of the year is no sm...2025-06-022h 35
The Upful LIFE Podcast087: TARRIONA "TANK" BALL [Tank And The Bangas] + TYPE RIDER [multi-media poetry project]TARRIONA "TANK" BALL, founder/frontperson/visionary of NOLA-based, GRAMMY-winning TANK AND THE BANGAS joins B.Getz for a special broadcast aboard Jam Cruise 21! Episode 087 was recorded around 12noon on Day 5, and Tank brought an insightful, jovial, reflective perspective to the table for a coloful conversation. On the hees of a pair of dynamite performances as part of their second sailing on The Boat, having first joined this floating circus a precious few weeks before the pandemic in Jan.2020, Tank talks about her JC experiences onstage and off, past and present. She also revisits her 2024 Grammy triumph, winning Best Spoken...2025-04-221h 45
The Upful LIFE Podcast086: NUBYA GARCIA [U.K.-based saxophonist/composer]A supreme honor & privilege to welcome scintillating saxophonist/composer NUBYA GARCIA to Episode 086. At the dawn of her first US headlining tour, the UK-based sorceress was kind enough to tap in for a deep, insightful chat on a smattering of salient topics with numerous delightful detours. Your humble narrator has been paying rather close attention to this dynamic, shape-shifting artist since she unveiled 2020 debut full-length LP SOURCE. In 2024, Garcia blasted back with the otherworldly sophomore sensation ODYSSEY, a multi-hued document that delivers different shades than its prodigous predecessor.
For just under an hour, Nubya Garcia unspools the p...2025-04-131h 53
The Upful LIFE Podcast085: ALANA ROCKLIN v.2 [bass- STS9], ASHER FULERO [keys/producer - Threedom, Emancipator Ensemble, Halo Refuser]Episode 085 kicks off with the return of STS9’s ALANA ROCKLIN! The beloved bassist delivered one of this program’s most popular conversations [#66, Spring 2023]; Rocklin was kind enough to come back for another round, a shorter interview recorded mid-Feb.2025 aboard Jam Cruise 21. We linked up on my cabin balcony for a discussion that covered the band’s long-awaited return to The Boat (and Alana’s maiden voyage!), new Sector 9 compositions and their forthcoming LP, curating intentional setlists and introducing material in the live element, the post-pandemic current touring model, live music bringing people together in tough times, and more!
0:00...2025-03-282h 18
The Upful LIFE Podcast084: ECHT! bassist FEDERICO PECORARO [Belgian Trap Jazz]All the way from Brussels, Belgium - please welcome ECHT! bassist FEDERICO PECORARO to episode 084! An honor and privilege to connect across the world with a member of one of the most exhilarating bands I’ve had the good fortune of stumbling upon in many, many moons. An idiosyncratic quartet since 2017, ECHT! (Brusselier for ‘The Real Thing’) is remarkably adept at reverse engineering electronic music, a modus operandi of progressive-minded live instrumentation unleashed on a lava-like level beyond your wildest imagination. These brilliant lads blend a malevolent concoction of 'Belgian Trap Jazz' that oscillates through soundscapes of sonic revolution. On Mar...2025-03-041h 41
The Upful LIFE Podcast083: NIGEL HALL vol.2 [keys/vocals- Lettuce, solo, duo w/ DJ Harrison]Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome back NIGEL HALL to The Upful LIFE Podcast. Member of my favorite band Lettuce. Co-founder and former member of The Nth Power. Collaborator to dozens across genre and generation. My dear friend of a decade plus. Virtuoso musician, otherworldly vocalist, transparent human being. Inspirational cat who takes no shorts and keeps it as real as it gets, and on this episode you find out exactly how/why that is.
Unplanned and improvised on the fly, this spirited conversation was taped during day one of Suwannee Hulaween 2024. Nigel and B celebrate their friendaversary...2024-12-212h 17
Dopey: On the Dark Comedy of Drug AddictionDopey 509: 'Kratom: The blue balls of getting high. It scratches the itch, but it doesn’t make you come." The Kratom Episode with B. Getz and Jana Wu!This Week on Dopey! The Kratom Craptacular! Everything you wanted to know about Kratom but were afraid to ask! I am extremely excited and proud of this new Dopey Kratom Show with Mountainside's Jana Wu and the Upful Life Podcasts' and Dopey Legend B. Getz - we learn so much about the phenomenon/scourge/harm reduction tool/recreational and super easily accessible gas station wonder drug - Kratom. No matter how you pronounce it - Kratom is out there and affecting the world of addiction and recovery profoundly! So sit back and relax and consume this extra long extra i...2024-12-132h 15
Dopey: On the Dark Comedy of Drug AddictionDopey 509: 'Kratom: The blue balls of getting high. It scratches the itch, but it doesn’t make you come." The Kratom Episode with B. Getz aThis Week on Dopey! The Kratom Craptacular! Everything you wanted to know about Kratom but were afraid to ask! I am extremely excited and proud of this new Dopey Kratom Show with Mountainside's Jana Wu and the Upful Life Podcasts' and Dopey Legend B. Getz - we learn so much about the phenomenon/scourge/harm reduction tool/recreational and super easily accessible gas station wonder drug - Kratom. No matter how you pronounce it - Kratom is out there and affecting the world of addiction and recovery profoundly! So sit back and relax and consume this extra long extra informative s...2024-12-132h 15
The Upful LIFE Podcast082: REBUILDING APPALACHIA - Hurricane Helene [w/ LEAH SONG of Rising Appalachia, FYFE, JOSH BLAKE of GFE / iamAVL, WREN from The NOHM Co., BRIAN GOOD - Asheville Music Hall]Episode 082 offers a bit of a different trip than the usual Upful LIFE Podcast. This program is focused entirely on Asheville NC & surrouding Appalachia in the wake of unimaginable destruction wrought by Hurricane Helene in late September. The Asheville music and arts community is a beacon of light and creativity, full of ambitious artisans, dreamers n' doers whom I admire. The good folks of AVL and Appalachia need a whole lotta love, positive energy, prayers, and most importantly DONATIONS to continue their long, arduous process of recovery and rebuilding.
This podcast presents four conversations between five different p...2024-11-252h 50
The Upful LIFE Podcast081: The Return of ANNA MOSS [solo project, debut LP, + Handmade Moments]Welcome back the lovely and talented singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Ms. ANNA MOSS. One-half of beloved political folk-hop duo Handmade Moments, the NOLA-based chaunteuse has launched an absolutely sensational solo project under her own name, leading a larger band on guitar and vocals, and she released a fantastic debut LP ‘Amnesty’ in March 2024. We checked in w/ Anna at the end of a jam-packed summer for a lengthy, spirited, occasionally raw and vulnerable convo about this dynamite new project, her career evolution, the mental/emotional roller coaster she rode during the pandemic to manifest this music, among other associated topics du j...2024-10-201h 58
The Upful LIFE Podcast080: PHISH COVENTRY - An Oral History 20 Years Later, + 'JAM The Documentary' w/ filmmaker ALEX DALTASTo commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Phish “retirement” shows, hop in the wayback machine to revisit the historic, chaotic, at-times catastrophic Coventry festival, hosted in northern Vermont way back in August 2004. Twenty years later, Episode 080 colorfully unspools an oral history of this fateful weekend, reflecting upon the legendary traffic jam, difficult weather and its consequences, plus inspired creativity, community action, local heroes lending helping hands, and determined phans hiking up to 20 miles into the fest.
The focus of this podcast is not the band’s atrocious, nerve-wracked, debilitated performances or their precarious situation at that moment in time...2024-08-152h 27
The Upful LIFE Podcast079: GREYBOY [DJ/producer/multi-instrumentalist, co-founder Greyboy Allstars] + FTF FestTwas an honor and privilege to welcome legendary DJ/producer/multi-instrumentalist GREYBOY to Episode 079!! A career highlight for this program to facilitate a wide-reaching, ever-rare interview with the man born Andreas Stevens, who's pioneering 90's work on Ubiquity Records set, raised, and re-raised the bar for West Coast acid jazz and trip-hop. Greyboy's solo canon is long revered for blurring the lines between hip-hop, funk, soul, jazz, and beyond; he's also the visionary behind rare-groove ragers The Greyboy Allstars. Released June 2024, Greyboy's latest LP Word On the Street represents an artistic rebirth and musical revolution tied to the broadening...2024-07-042h 25
The Upful LIFE Podcast078: MZG [Zach & Charles Weinert - electronic producer duo, twin bros]Welcome Florida-bred, Denver-based electronic producer duo MZG to Episode 078! Zach and Charles Weinert are wildly talented yet humble and hilarious, studio wizards who can cook up with the best in the game. Many of us have long been convinced these two handsome gents are destined for superstardom, if not global EDM domination. I've had the privilege of watching the evolution of their craft, careers, collaborations, and trademark sound since before they were even performing as a duo, as well as call them real-life homies for nearly 15 years. Get ready for the Twinzies Takeover!
0:00 - episode 078 prevoew
2:40 - For...2024-06-102h 09
The Upful LIFE Podcast077: PETER LEVIN [keys - Gregg Allman, Blind Boys AL, The Highwomen] + Summer Tours '24 Preview w/ J.A.Welcome NY-bred, Nashville-based PETER LEVIN, a keyboardist/singer/producer to Episode 077! A veteran of multiple music scenes, bands, and geographies, Peter Levin has written/performed with numerous artists who've appeared on this show, & dozens more who have not. A well-respected musician, songwriter and producer, across 3 decades Peter has collaborated with legends like the late, great Gregg Allman, cultural institutions such as the Allman Brothers Band and Blind Boys of Alabama, rising stars i.e. Amanda Shires, and appears on the award-winning album The Highwomen.
0:00 - ep.077 preview
3:00 - a word from our sponsor For the Funk o...2024-05-142h 07
The Upful LIFE Podcast076: AGENT 23 - Granola Funk Express [mc/educator/Grammy-winning artist - SECRET AGENT 23 SKIDOO]Agent 23 aka Cactus aka Secret Agent 23 Skidoo, welcome to The Upful Life Podcast! A founding member of pioneering Asheville-based live hip-hop collective Granola Funk Express (GFE). A progenitor of "family hip-hop" with his Secret Agent 23 Skidoo project, which took home a Grammy in 2019 for Best Children's Album. Cactus is a published author of several books, and a prolific educator around the country for kids of all ages and backgrounds.
0:00 - episode 076 preview
3:30 - iamavl - thank you for the sponsor
6:30 - The Upful Update
12:40 - introducing Agent 23 aka Cactus
16:10 - interview w/ Cactus [95min]
1:51:30 - afterglow, V...2024-04-171h 58
The Upful LIFE Podcast075: KRUDER & DORFMEISTERLive n' direct from their studio in Vienna, Austria, iconic electronic producer/DJ duo KRUDER and DORFMEISTER tap into the Upful LIFE. On Episode 075, Peter Kruder and Richard Dorfmeister pull up for a colorful, career-spanning conversation, both fellas waxing nostalgic, and piloting the wayback machine through the pair's prolific, pioneering journey in sound. Our chat starts at the 22min mark.
00:00 - episode preview
04:30 - our sponsors: iamAVL, & Love That Baby
09:00 - The Upful Update
13:00 - Introducing KRUDER & DORFMEISTER
22:00 - Conversation w/ Peter Kruder & Richard Dorfmeister [83min]
1:45:45 - Afterglow & Vibe Junkie JAMZ
Listening to these t...2024-02-202h 18
The Upful LIFE Podcast074: ROGERS STEVENS [guitarist/co-founder BLIND MELON]Welcome ROGERS STEVENS, guitarist/co-founder of Blind Melon - as well as Towne & Stevens - to Episode 074! A dream come true for your host, an unabashed lifelong Blind Melon fanatic. Rogers joins the pod from his cozy home studio just outside Philadelphia for a 90-min conversation about his career - past, present, and future.
A peek inside Rogers' process making records with Nathan Towne, and Stevens finally finding his singing voice later in life. Working with Rene Lopez again, long after Extra Virgin and The Tender Trio. Growing up a rocker in rural Mississippi. Embarking on the...2024-01-122h 34
The Upful LIFE Podcast073: MARYA STARK [singer/songwriter] + WREN LIZABETH [herbalist - The NOHM Co.]Episode 073 proudly welcomes a pair of prolific special guests: the magnificent multi-instrumentalist, multimedia enchantress, self-confessed storyteller, bard, and muse: Ms. MARYA STARK sits down for a colorful, career-spanning conversation. Chased by a second, equally-illuminating chat with WREN LIZABETH, an herbalist, permaculturist, and educator, the founder of alternative holistic health/self-care collective The NOHM Co., & elixir line The MerTails.
1:30 - a word from our sponsor iamavl
4:15 - shoutout Cold Blooded Designs
6:00 - The Upful Update
10:00 - introducing MARYA STARK
13:15 - interview w/ Marya Stark [46 min]
59:15 - introducing WREN LIZABETH
1:03:15 - conversation w/ Wren Lizabeth [49 min]
1:48:30 - afterglow, Vibe Junkie J...2024-01-041h 54
The Upful LIFE Podcast072: ALEX WASILY [Dumpstaphunk, Francis Comes Alive, very good trombonist]Welcome Alex Wasily to Ep.072 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast*! #VeryGood trombonist with NOLA institution Dumpstaphunk since 2016; musical director of Francis Comes Alive, Neal Francis new 11-piece big band experience and concert film. Teacher and student, the crew cheerleader and a masterclass mentor, plus expert mixologist and host with the most. Alex was kind enough to bring his huge personality, beautiful journey, and insightful perspectives to the show for a lengthy conversation.
2:30 - A word from our sponsor iamavl
5:30 - The Upful Update
11:00 - introducing ALEX WASILY
13:15 - INTERVIEW w/ Alex [103 min]
1:56:00 - afterglow, Vibe Junkie JAM
W...2023-11-252h 10
The Upful LIFE Podcast071: PAUL LEVINE [10th Hulaween, Bear Creek, SOSMP] + Remembering James Casey + BGetz Hula23 PicksA very special guest many moons in the making, please welcome dear friend and fearless leader PAUL LEVINE of Hulaween, Purple Hat Productions, co-founder of Bear Creek and Purple Hatters Ball, Suwannee Resonate, and all-around ambassador of Spirit of Suwannee Music Park. Paul is a major force of nature in our little sliver of the musical universe, responsible for so many epic endeavors over the years. On the occasion of the 10th Hulaween, Paul the Wolf finally slides through the pod to discuss the joys, journey, success, teammates, peaks, valleys, tragedy, community, and the Spirit of Suwannee dream. After...2023-10-202h 21
The Upful LIFE Podcast070: PAPA MALI [solo,7 Walkers, Shantytown Underground,] + RIP Russell Batiste Jr.Welcome the great guitarist/singer/songwriter/producer PAPA MALI! Based in NOLA for the past dozen years, Papa Mali is a certified rock n' roll troubadour, having lived several musical lives in numerous locales across the past half-century. An artist for art’s sake and rad to the core, Malcolm is an old-school bluesman, reggae devotee, soul/R&B aficionado - he’s at home with funk, folk, and gutbucket piano joints too. The man is a living breathing chameleonic musicologist in our midst. A conversation brimming with detailed ruminations and colorful pointifications.
In addition to the Cres...2023-10-172h 27
The Upful LIFE Podcast069: KARINA RYKMAN Returns! (bassist/vox) + BRIAN SWISLOW (keys- Object Heavy)Finally... KARINA RYKMAN has come BACK to *The Upful LIFE Podcast*! The bassist/vocalist just dropped a dynamite debut LP JOYRIDE, with contributions and co-production from Trey Anastasio. On the heels of several barnburner festival throwdowns this summer, she's blasting off on a huge headline tour from coast to coast in the fall. Karina slides thru for a candid and colorful conversation, revealing how her career has evolved and exploded since we last spoke. A detailed unpacking of the creation and manifestation of her record. Reflections on musical partnership with producer Gabe Monro, bandmates Adam November and Chris Corsico, p...2023-08-232h 15
The Upful LIFE Podcast068: FRENCHY (NOLA-based live-painter, pioneer)What an absolute thrill to welcome FRENCHY to Episode 068! Based in NOLA, this icon of live-painting in both music/festival culture(s) and pro sports is renowned around the world for his stunning version of acousti-optics. Frenchy's joyful, freestyle process and pioneering visual art set the bar sky high for a quarter century to come, and continues to elevate and innovate to this day.
Frenchy's flow-state sessions painting the finest live music performances are long the stuff of legend. Funkafied renderings of the heroes of yesteryear and stars of today. A self-taught wizard wielding kaleidoscopic colorways, total...2023-07-202h 15
Weird Music PodcastEp. 53: B. Getz of Upful Life — Starting a Podcast & Capturing Music HistoryEp. 53: B. Getz of (@upful_life) — Starting a Podcast & Capturing Music History
Imagine an episode of “60 Minutes” mixed with a Ram Dass lecture, but starring your favorite musicians…
This episode features charismatic culture creating podcast host B. Getz of The Upful Life Podcast. Everything from B's "AHA" moment with podcasting, chronicling music history, asking great questions and more. Check out Upful Life here: http://www.upfullife.com/
This is the Weird Music Podcast, where our host Cam Elkins explores the minds of the most creative and influential people involved in the music festival scene. W...2023-07-1420 min
Weird Music PodcastEp. 52: Random RabEp. 52: Random Rab (feat B. Getz of The Upful LIFE)— How Psychedelics & Music Are a Spiritual Doorway
Imagine an episode of “60 Minutes” mixed with a Ram Dass lecture, but starring your favorite musicians…
This episode features master of soundscapes, Random Rab, with a special feature clip from the host of The Upful LIFE podcast, B. Getz.
Tune in to learn Rab's outlook on using psychedelics as tools, lessons learned form the ocean, creating authentic art, and B. Getz story of how Random Rab's music and message has transformed his life.
Check out The Upfu...2023-07-1434 min
The Upful LIFE Podcast067: ARI TEITEL [guitar/vox - THE RUMBLE, solo, Tony Hall, ex-Cha Wa] + Summer Tours ’23 Preview w/ J.A.
On the heels of a fantastic NOLA Jazz Fest 2023, please welcome New Orleans-based guitarist/vocalist ARI TEITEL (The Rumble) to Episode 067. I’ve been keepin’ ears and eyes on Ari for the past few years as he continually makes waves in this country’s greatest musical city. With numerous irons in the fire, as well as a laundry list of colossal collaborators, it was high time that I catch up with the young axe-slinger and hear all about his musical journey thus far.
2:30 - The Upful Update: Irmzie injury, NOLA Jazz Fest 2023
14:00 - introducing ARI TEITEL
18:25 - INTER...2023-06-032h 38
The Upful LIFE Podcast066: ALANA ROCKLIN [bass - STS9, sub-ID]Welcome STS9 bassist ALANA ROCKLIN! Based in Nashville, Rocklin has a diverse musical background and thorough collaborative resumé. Mentored by the great Victor Wooten, she studied jazz improvisation at the University of Michigan. After a few seminal years immersed in Chicago's fertile avant garde, she eventually made her way back to Music City, where she worked as a session musician for some time.
Long before her stint with STS9 began, Alana and her husband Brad Bowden befriended the band in 2001. The duo formed experimental electronic project sub-ID, releasing music on STS9's 1320 Records. Rocklin has toured with J...2023-04-172h 13
The Upful LIFE Podcast065: JAY MUMFORD [drums- The Du Rites, Adrian Quesada, fka rapper/producer J-ZONE]The Du-Rites' JAY MUMFORD, formerly known as the producer/emcee J-Zone, has worn many hats throughout his career—rapper, beat-maker, DJ, author/journalist, and finally drummer. J-Zone developed an underground rap following during the early 2000s indie hip-hop explosion. As he got older, Mumford grew increasingly jaded with the rap industry, before bottoming out. Sitting on the throne of a drum set, Jay would rediscover his passion for the funk music that first inspired him as a teenager.
The major transition began to take shape in 2011, when J-Zone attempted to quit rap, write a hip-hop memoir, and st...2023-03-092h 24
The Upful LIFE Podcast064: KATHY IANDOLI [author/journalist: Aaliyah, Lauryn Hill, Lil’ Kim, Prodigy/Mobb Deep, Black Lily]Welcome KATHY IANDOLI to The Upful LIFE Podcast! Ever since I tore thru her Aaliyah book last year, I've been patiently-yet-anxiously awaiting an opportunity to speak with Kathy on this show. Ms. Iandoli is a media professional whom I've admired for some time, there's a lot to glean from how she moves thru music/media industries, and I aspire to the levels she's already climbed time and again. An Okayplayer OG, Iandoli has projects and relationships with movers n' shakers all over the map, in hip-hop, punk, fashion, and more.
Topics of conversation include - Women coming...2023-02-072h 30
The Upful LIFE Podcast063: The Return of DAVID MANHEIM - DOPEY PODCAST [dark comedy on drugs-addiction-recovery]Season's Greetings n' Upful vibrations! Please welcome back to the show Dave from Dopey Podcast - now going by his gov't: David Manheim. After 5 years of my dedicated listening/contributing to Dopey, plus his epic, record-holding May 2020 appearance on Upful Life ep.033, and much correspondence between us in the interim, the man they call "Dopey Dave" and yours truly finally met in person, live n' direct at Park City Song Summit in Utah, Sept.2022. A cosmic convergence in stunningly beautiful environs where we were both there in our respective official capacities: as podcast hosts and journalists. We dropped in...2022-12-252h 16
The Upful LIFE Podcast062: DAN CHARNAS [author/journalist - Dilla Time book, NYU professor]Welcome DAN CHARNAS! His latest book - Dilla Time: The Life and Afterlife of J Dilla, The Hip-Hop Producer Who Reinvented Rhythm (2022) - is a New York Times Bestseller. Award-winning music and business journalist, author of four books, producer of records and television. Associate Arts Professor at the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music at NYU. In the 1980's, Dan was part of the opening team at The Source magazine, in the 1990's he worked A&R for Rick Rubin at American Recordings.
3:00 - The Upful Update
9:30 - introducing DAN CHARNAS & Dilla Time
17:45 - INTERVIEW (102min)
The p...2022-11-302h 11
The Upful LIFE Podcast061: LEAH SONG [Rising Appalachia]Live & direct from the Park City Song Summit with the sensational LEAH SONG ! An 80+ minute deep dive with one-half of the siren sisters Rising Appalachia. Explore the passions, pathways and pillars that built the bedrock of their unicorn sound. Unspooling Rising App fifteen years in: ambitious activism, adventurous travels, treasured traditions, and a kaleidoscopic career. Musicology and cultural anthropology. Community, collaboration, catharsis. This is powerful podcasting.
2:30 - The Mertails / The NOHM Co
6:00 - The Upful Update
10:00 introducing LEAH SONG x dedications
18:00 Conversation w/ LEAH (81 min)
1:40:00 - reflections / Vibe Junkie Jamz
Leah Song takes us back to the e...2022-10-151h 59
The Upful LIFE Podcast060: JOEL CUMMINS [co-founder/keyboards - Umphrey’s McGee, author]Checking in from the Asking For A Friend Tour, Umphrey's McGee keyboardist/co-founder JOEL CUMMINS saddles up for an insightful chat. I was lucky to run right into Joel at Sacred Rose outside of Chicago at the end of August, where UM headlined with two sets on Saturday night. Turns out the multi-faceted artist was keen to come on this show! I'm a bit less familiar with this band's catalog than many of the guests who bless up these podwaves, yet I've always been friendly with Joel over the past decade or so. I have a tremendous respect for...2022-09-191h 29
The Upful LIFE Podcast059: POLYRHYTHMICS : [Ben Bloom - guitar, Jason Gray - bass]Welcome BEN BLOOM and JASON GRAY of POLYRHYTHMICS! This wide-ranging conversation took place on the Sunday of Suwannee Rising, after the band dropped a pair of scorching sets on SOSMP. With the fest raging in the distance, the three of us snuck off to have a lengthy discussion on the band's journey, inspirations, intention, mission, future and more.
3:25 SACRED ROSE & BROOKLYN COMES ALIVE
8:30 The Upful Update w/ B.Getz
13:25 Introducing POLYRHYTHMICS
18:45 INTERVIEW w/ Ben & Jason of Polyrhythmics
A hard-driving modern afro-psycho-beat squadron, Polyrhythmics feature the heart-thumping bass lines of Jason Gray, and the colorful, intricate phrasings of Ben Blo...2022-08-191h 53
The Upful LIFE Podcast058: NATE EDGAR [bass, The Nth Power, ex-John Brown’s Body]Welcome virtuosic bassist NATE EDGAR of THE NTH POWER to Ep.058! Nate is a helluva player, and he takes us inside his process, influences, mindset, and intentions as a bassist, band member, brother, and low-end medicine man. Heaping slabs of musicology with a healthy serving of humanity. Nate Dawg doesn't do very many interviews - certainly not lengthy, super-personal purges - so this ep is a real treat, and an emotional sledgehammer. A gentleman, scholar, subsonic sorcerer, and servant of the song, Buckle up fam, we're goin IN! Ladies and gentleman, Mr. Nate Edgar.
3:00 - new sponsor! THE L...2022-07-142h 33
The Upful LIFE Podcast057: RON JOHNSON on the Bass [Samantha Fish, Gregg Allman, Warren Haynes, Anders Osborne, ex-KDTU]RON JOHNSON on the bass. Ron Johnson on the BASS! Currently holding down the low-end with red-hot guitar phenom Samantha Fish. Ron worked extensively with Gregg Allman at the end of his life, developing a profound friendship in Gregg’s final act. Ron toured hard with Warren Haynes Band, has collaborated with Anders Osborne. Chris Cain, Nigel Hall, and dozens of others. Ron was the longtime sturdy anchor for Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, during what I firmly believe to be their mightiest era, 2000-2006.
3:15 - PSA from your humble narrator
4:20 - Derrick Freeman & Smoker's World "HoTel" + BG catch...2022-05-312h 12
The Upful LIFE Podcast056: SKERIK [saxophonist: Garage a Trois, Bastard Jazz, Emerald Quintet, Critters Buggin, DRKWAV, Syncopated Taint Septet, Bandalabra, Lorbo, Dead Kenny G’s, Omaha Diner, MORE!]Please welcome SKERIK, Seattle's inimitable master of saxophone skronk, to Episode 056 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast. Brilliant on both tenor and baritone saxophone, most often mixing in electronics, effects, and loops, Skerik is nothing short of a pioneer in saxophonics.
3:15 - Introducing Skerik
9:30 - Skerik interview
Co-founder of Critters Buggin, Garage a Trois, Tuatara, DRKWAV, and Skerik’s Syncopated Taint Septet. He is also an original member of both Les Claypool’s Fancy Band and Fearless Flying Frog Brigade. Skerik has worked extensively with Stanton Moore (drummer-Galactic) and Charlie Hunter (8-string guitar) across numerous collabs, including Bastard Jazz...2022-04-272h 01
The Upful LIFE Podcast055: The Return of WEEDIE BRAIMAH (djembefola, Hands of Time, Nth Power, Trombone Shorty, Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah)Welcome back the great Weedie Braimah to Ep.055! An educational, inspirational, international deep dive with a man who is sworn to the drum. Topics include: recent trip to the continent, Ghanaian heritage, reflections on 'East St. Africa', the concept, players, intention and evolution of his band 'The Hands of Time', their GRAMMY-nominated self-titled album on Stretch/Ropeadope, his parents/ancestral lineage as a drummer and teacher, Idris Muhammad, the intergenerational connection between Baba Olatunji/Grateful Dead in the 1980's and what Weedie & Co are doing today, and more! Ruminations on his collabs with The Nth Power, Trombone Shorty, Christian S...2022-03-262h 27
The Upful LIFE Podcast054: The Return of ERIC KRASNO [Soulive, The Assembly] + The Music Cellar fundraiser w/ Jonny G [lespecial]Welcome back the great Eric Krasno! The Soulive guitarist, Lettuce co-founder, The Assembly bandleader, and producer extraordinaire. Kraz has been a very busy bee of late, forming a new band, releasing solo LP Always, plus marriage, fatherhood, a new crib and studio in LA, and hosting the popular Plus One podcast. Kraz's Fall 2019 appearance on the Upful LIFE pod was quite well-received, so with all the exciting developments in his life and career, it feels like the perfect time to get up to speed with all things Eric Krasno.
Stick around at the end for The Music...2022-02-232h 27
The Upful LIFE Podcast053: THE CHAMBERS PROJECT (Psychedelic Art & Culture w/ Brian Chambers, Jacaeber Kastor, A Path Untold)Episode 053 welcomes The Chambers Project for a wide-ranging discussion on psychedelic art, through both a historical and contemporary lens. The conversation welcomes a pair of pioneers from this particular space - Brian Chambers and Jacaeber Kastor - both of whom I met during the magnificent grand-opening of the avant-garde One Step Further show at The Chambers Project gallery in Grass Valley, CA. Later in the episode, electronic producer A Path Untold joins the fold for a bit about the musical branch of this ambitious endeavor.
10:00 - introducing The Chambers Project
18:00 - conversation w/ Brian Chambers & Jacaeber Kastor
89:00...2022-01-292h 01
The Upful LIFE Podcast052: SHAWN SETARO (hip-hop journalist w Complex/ The Cipher/ Tekashi 69 book/ Pop Smoke pod) + RIP Greg TateIt’s an honor and a privilege to welcome accomplished journalist, author, and rap podcast OG SHAWN SETARO, a reporter at Complex, to Episode 052. Setaro has a brand new book on the shelves this week, about the sordid saga of Tekashi 6ix9ine. He's the writer and reporter on the podcasts 'Infamous' (about Tekashi), 'Complex Subject: Pop Smoke'. He’s written about music and culture for Forbes, The Atlantic, Vibe, The Source, GQ, Esquire, The Sondheim Review, and more. Setaro was Editor-in-Chief for Rap Genius, and hosted the iconic rap pod The Cipher, an encyclopedic hip-hop program featuring deep dive...2021-12-232h 15
The Upful LIFE Podcast051: NEAL FRANCIS (singer-songwriter-keys) / + Salute to the Spirit of Suwannee w/ SCOTT TWelcome white-hot singer/songwriter/keyboardist NEAL FRANCIS to Episode 051! Neal is straight outta Chicago’s buzz-bin, an artist riding a meteoric rise to the heart of the zeitgeist, thanks to his monumental 2019 debut solo LP Changes. On November 5th, Neal dropped his stunning sophomore record In Plain Sight on ATO Records, and has been touring hard in the run up to the release, including a raucous late-night performance at Suwannee Hulaween. In addition to an hour with Francis, Episode 051 includes a special Suwannee Hulaween tribute, and a recording of a profound talk courtesy of SOSMP philosopher-poet SCOTT T, which to...2021-11-242h 17
The Upful LIFE Podcast050: JAY BLAKESBERG (rock photographer/ filmmaker / GD-culture anthropologist)Honored to welcome to Episode 050 the great JAY BLAKESBERG, a photographer, filmmaker, and cultural anthropologist who really needs no introduction, though I give him a lengthy, fawning one to kick off this program. Jay is best known for his iconic work shooting (and following) the Grateful Dead since the late 1970’s, and has continued to chronicle the various offshoots and band developments thru the years. He’s also a Bay Area institution, a world-renowned photographer /filmmaker/historian all over rock music, stretching out far beyond the ever-sprawling GD universe where he first cut his teeth and made his bones.
In...2021-10-272h 05
The Upful LIFE Podcast049: MOVIE CLUB (psych-rock duo) / SHINEHEAD (reggae legend) / RIP Michael K. WilliamsA fresh look towards the future & blast from the past with this pair of insightful conversations. Welcome Venice Beach-based psych-rock duo MOVIE CLUB, and world-renowned reggae/dancehall/hip-hop/soul legend SHINEHEAD to *The Upful LIFE Podcast* Episode 049.
Michael K. Williams tribute @ 2:20
Introducing Movie Club @ 11:00 / Interview @ 17:45
Introducing Shinehead @ 63:00 / Interview @ 67:40
Had to take a few moments and discuss my feelings and grief with regard to the tragic passing of one of my all-time favorite actors, Michael K. Williams, best known as Omar Devonne Little on HBO's masterful series The Wire. Fentanyl snatches yet another hero from our midst. My hear...2021-09-301h 59
The Upful LIFE Podcast048: SCOTTY B (JamBase/YEMblog) & JASON ABRAMS (Rock & Wrestling Connection Pod) - Talkin' The PHlSH From VT - 2021 Summer Tour & More!cover photo: (c) Jake Silco 2021 (used w/permission)
For Episode 048, we flip the script a lil' bit. Finally, a podcast about The PHlSH from VT! Instead of one long form interview, for this two-hour hoo-ride I invited a pair of venerable Phishtorians to the show for twin conversations and complimentary commentary, as we discuss the band's impressive, triumphant return to the stage in summer 2021.
Scotty B of JamBase/YEMblog - intro- 11:30, interview- 12:45
PSA - toxic masculinity & predatory behaviors in the Phish scene 51:00
B.Getz on The Phish from VT in AC - 58:00
Jason Abrams intro- 66:00, J.A...2021-08-252h 20
The Upful LIFE Podcast047: THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE- David Block (Gone Gone Beyond, producer/multi-instrumentalist)Welcome THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE- DAVID BLOCK (solo electronic producer + Gone Gone Beyond) to Episode 047! A dancefloor General, prince of the piano, soundtrack to the squish, or conductor around the campfire, David wears myriad musical and intellectual hats. He's been a celebrated artist across various mediums for over a dozen years, with considerable contributions to the West Coast festival/Burning Man/live music communities. Block's international future-folk quartet Gone Gone Beyond recently released their stunning third full-length LP 2030 to rave reviews from rabid fans, and a chorus of critical acclaim.
@ 9:00 introducing The Human Experience/David Block/Gone Gone B...2021-07-122h 04
ContenderCast with Justin HonamanUPFUL BLENDS :: TEA BLENDS AND SUPPLEMENTSUpful Blends creates and provides organic, wildcrafted, and ethically grown tea blends and supplements. They aim to continuously source alkaline, unadulterated, and nourishing plant medicine for the connection of the mind, body, and spirit. Chantel Robertson, founder and CEO, joins Justin to discuss this new brand.2021-06-2120 min
The Upful LIFE Podcast046: KARINA RYKMAN (bass- Marco Benevento, solo, ex-Sound of Urchin)Welcome KARINA RYKMAN, bassist of Marco Benevento's trio, to Episode 046. A dynamic solo artist, skilled with both the bass and guitar, a lightning bolt of youthful exuberance, dedicated metalhead, hip-hop enthusiast, Phish kid, podcaster, quintessential New Yorker, and all-around swag factory. Karina is riding the wave of her new single/video "No Occasion", and she checks from NYC via telephone for an illuminating conversation that details her meteoric ascent from the Upper East Side towards near-total domination.
Introducing KARINA RYKMAN @ 9:30 / Interview @ 12:30
The wide-ranging conversation starts with taking the temp of NYC, as the Big Apple...2021-06-161h 50
The Upful LIFE Podcast045: JAKE ROCKATANSKY (QAA pod, conspiracy researcher, sci-fi writer, Weezer stan)Welcome JAKE ROCKATANSKY, co-founder/co-host of Q*non Anonymous podcast to Episode 045. For 3 years, Jake & his cohorts at QAA have been investigating and unraveling the Q phenomenon, and all the various conspiracy threads that fit under the big Q tent. We'd never be able to button up the whole Q conspiracy kit n' caboodle in merely one pod ep! Instead, we take a lengthy, illuminating trek into the world of @RealRockatansky, rewind Jake's path to the podcast, explore the annals of Q-research and the QAA origin story, with our main man J-Rock at the helm.
We talmbout Q...2021-05-192h 24
Envision RISECreating Meaningful and Objective Employee Performance Reviews with Shirin Nikaein of Upful.aiIn this episode, Envision RISE’s Global Director of Equity & Inclusion, Staci Hegarty speaks with Shirin Nikaein, Co-Founder and CEO of Upful.ai about how a negative experience with biased employer feedback led her to create a product that helps companies produce more meaningful and objective employee performance reviews. Staci and Shirin talk about how Upful uses behavioral science research to address common issues with employee reviews as well as what it’s like to be in a start-up, and advice for those thinking of starting their own companies. Hear Staci and Shirin discuss:How Upful detects vague, subj...2021-05-0542 min
The Upful LIFE Podcast044: CHRIS HARFORD (Band of Changes, BlancDUBlanc) + R.I.P. SHOCK G of Digital UndergroundWelcome CHRIS HARFORD (Band of Changes, BlancDUBlanc) to Episode 044! What an honor & a privilege to host such an esteemed rock n' roll troubadour to the show. Prepare for a lengthy, profound powwow with more rabbit holes than you can shake a chalice at. Ep.044 also includes a short, sweet tribute to the late, great Shock G of Digital Underground, the East-Bay psychedelic funksta/hip-hop pioneer/Humpty Hump who recently passed away at just 57 years young.
@ 5min: News! KRAZ Plus One + Upful Life = The Guest List
@ 9min: Shock G R.I.P. Tribute
@ 22min: Introducing CHRIS HARFORD / @ 27min : Interview
Si...2021-04-282h 04
The Upful LIFE Podcast043: NIGEL HALL (keys/vox: Lettuce, Jon Cleary, ex-The Nth Power) + 'The Joe Clark Mixtape'Episode 043 welcomes DC-born, NOLA-based NIGEL HALL (Lettuce, Jon Cleary, ex-The Nth Power) to the show for an hour-plus Vulcan Mind Probe. Nige has been a friend for about a dozen years, and I've written extensively about his musical exploits, so this convergence was a very long time in the making. The extremely gifted, Grammy-nominated keyboardist/vocalist - singer/songwriter keeps a lot of artistic irons in the fire. Nigel's dropping sophomore solo LP Spiritual on May 14, 2021, a stunning sojourn into Soulquarian waters co-produced by DJ Harrison and backed by members of Butcher Brown.
@9mins- Introducing NIGEL HALL / @16min...2021-03-302h 32
The Upful LIFE Podcast042: JACKSON WHALAN (emcee / producer) + Welcome Back Lettuce & D'Angelo!Episode 042 welcomes JACKSON WHALAN, emcee/producer based in the Berkshire mountains of Mass. We met in NorCal about 5 years ago, and he released his latest full-length LP From the Woods in Jan 2021; Whalan's got a huge collab on the way with the legendary Blastmaster himself, KRS-ONE. Jackson also helped inspire me to start this podcast when we did a live onstage Q&A in Nevada City, CA back in 2017.
@4:00 - Welcome Back LETT & 'Mr. Yancey' live in Denver
@10:00 - Jackson Whalan intro, @15:00 JW interview / @1hr 50min S.N.A.G. by Jackson Whalan
Our 90-min conversation touches on J...2021-03-072h 08
The Upful LIFE Podcast041: ALFRED HOWARD (spoken word-lyricist) / TALIA KEYS (guitarist-singer-songwriter)Welcome San Diego's prodigal poet/songwriter/vocalist ALFRED HOWARD and SLC's badass firebrand TALIA KEYS to Episode 041 of The Upful LIFE Podcast! Placing the spotlight on a pair of phenomenal underground artists, each carving out their own path with purpose, ingenuity, and verve.
"All Praise Due" Alfred Howard/KDTU 2003 - (7:45), Alfred Howard Intro (10:00), Interview (14:00) "I Love America" Alfred Howard (53:45)
Talia Keys Intro (1:02:00), Interview (1:06:00), Vibe Junkie JAMZ (1:49:00)
Alfred Howard is an accomplished, versatile lyricist, a provocative poet with humble beginnings performing spoken word; he's a dedicated percussionist, and independent record label guru. Howard's enigmatic, sp...2021-02-022h 11
A MultiLingual Affair (AMA)EP20 UPFUL CONSIOUS VIBES WITH NIGERIAN JAMAICAN ARTIST, IYAH-GIFTEP20 UPFUL CONSIOUS VIBES WITH NIGERIAN JAMAICAN ARTIST, IYAH-GIFT
A MultiLingual Affair (AMA) on CKUT 90.3FM Thursdays, 6-7AM, breakfast with Takeyce (www.ckut.ca), Montreal Canada
Un autre excellent programme! De la bonne musique et un merveilleux raisonnement avec IYAH-GIFT! Excellent musical vibes, inspirational words and great reasoning with a African Caribbean flow!! Niceness!
Nuh mis dis! Ne manquez pas ! No se lo pierda !
Like! Share! Subscribe! Give/Receive Love! ;-)
---Takeyce
2021-01-221h 02
The Upful LIFE Podcast040: JONNY G. -- lespecial (guitar/vocals/keyboards/samples --- Jon Grusauskas)JONNY G of lespecial hollers from the Music Cellar to discuss his influences, career, the band, and their fantastic 3rd LP ‘Ancient Homies’, released Dec. 2020 on Ropeadope. Episode 040 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast*!
Rest in Power MF DOOM @ 9:00
Who/Why: Jonny G of lespecial @ 12:00
70min interview starts @ 20:00
lespecial, the Nor’easter trio who blur lines and blast genres beyond recognition, are riding a huge wave of momentum after a wildly-successful NYE livestream. and the fans’ jubilant reception of Ancient Homies. Their latest LP is a sonorous slab of sound-art, if I do say so myself. I’m new to this...2021-01-061h 48
The Upful LIFE Podcast039: MIKE DILLON [punk-jazz vibes/percussion - Garage a Trois, Critters Buggin', Rickie Lee Jones, Claypool's Frog Brigade, Ani DiFranco, Nolatet, Hairy Apes BMX, Band of Outsiders, Punkadelic, more!]Welcome the legendary MIKE DILLON to Episode 039 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* for no-holds barred story-telling and a free exchange of ideas!! Punk Rock Jazz Freak Vibraphonist/Percussionist/Singer-Songwriter/Philosopher extraordinaire!
introducing Mike Dillon @ 10mins
Interview @ 18mins
One of a kind unicorn madman, this veteran of three decades in music takes us onboard his fantastic voyage, thrilling career, wild adventures, hard lessons, and life's beautifully human journey. Mike D touches on his most recent works- 'Rosewood', and Mike Dillon & Punkadelic 'Shoot the Moon'. He poignantly revisits Garage a Trois debut at Jazz Fest 2000, opines on B...2020-12-022h 00
The Upful LIFE Podcast038: DEREK BERES (Conspirituality Podcast / EarthRise Soundsystem / BIG Think) - journalist, DJ-producer - yogaEpisode 038 welcomes the esteemed DEREK BERES to *The Upful LIFE Podcast* for a thoughtful, informative and inspiring conversation unlike anything you've ever heard on this program! Author / journalist / yoga-movement instructor / DJ-Producer, and co-host of CONSPIRITUALITY PODCAST. @derekberes
- introduction @ 11min
- interview w/ DEREK BERES @ 20min
Derek's been a respected, leading voice in the wellness/yoga/spiritual communities for many moons, and through various channels of media, education, music, books and beyond, Beres has really stepped into this confounding, historic moment. He is a wealth of salient perspective and sobering realizations; our conversation is...2020-10-211h 55
Almost FamiliarThe B. Getz EpisodeGet familiar with one of the music scenes most active and knowledgeable journalists, our friend, B. Getz. B. started working in the music industry dating back to the 90's. Throughout his career he has been to countless historic concerts/festivals, transcribing them in his incredibly captivating style of writing. Today he is still as active as ever as a journalist as well as the host for his own podcast, "The Upful Life". B. takes us all the way to the back to his first Dead show, leading to his life-changing sun-rise encounter with Abraxis the Golden Dragon at Burning M...2020-09-302h 36
The Upful LIFE Podcast037: KARL DENSON (Greyboy Allstars, KDTU, Rolling Stones, ex-Lenny Kravitz)Welcome the iconic KARL DENSON to Episode 037! What an honor and a privilege to host this legendary musician to the show. Co-founder of The Greyboy Allstars, bossman/bandleader of Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, touring member of the Rolling Stones, and longtime (former) sideman/personal pal to the coolest motherfucker on the planet, Lenny Kravitz. A virtuoso saxophonist/flutist, and prolific singer/songwriter taboot, Karl D is among the hardest workin cats in show business, and has been so for the longest time. The man affectionately called “Diesel” generously availed himself for a thorough, hour-plus powwow on a plethora of sal...2020-09-291h 57
The Upful LIFE Podcast036: BLACK BURNER PROJECT + D.J.WILLIAMS (Shots Fired, KDTU)Welcome BLACK BURNER PROJECT founder ERIN DOUGLAS, and DJ WILLIAMS of Shots Fired & Karl Denson's Tiny Universe to Episode 036 of The Upful LIFE Podcast! T'was an honor & a privilege to host these inspiring individuals to this program. A pair of enlightening dialogues and Black American narratives that are at once relevant, uplifting, and above all, salient to our current cultural climate.
BLACK BURNER PROJECT Erin Douglas @ 9:00
DJ WILLIAMS -Shots Fired/KDTU @ 54:00
Black Burner Project is a multicultural movement driving inclusivity at Burning Man. Travel, self exploration and radical expression through imagery and personal stories. Erin Douglas is a Mar...2020-09-011h 46
The Upful LIFE Podcast035: CHRIS LITTLEFIELD (Trumpet - Karl Denson's Tiny Universe, Klozd Sirkut)Welcome CHRIS LITTLEFIELD (Trumpet- Karl Denson's Tiny Universe) to Episode 035 of The Upful LIFE Podcast ! In addition to being a brilliant musician and veteran funk/R&B trumpet player, Chris is a longtime friend going back over fifteen years. It was tremendously rewarding to get with him for a riveting 90-minute conversation that is at once informative and inspiring. Chris Littlefield takes us into the reality of his surroundings, unpacking a plethora of insight and ideas.
Chris Littlefield INTERVIEW @ 15:00
In lieu of the standard chat going down memory lane, instead Chris and I jump into a myriad...2020-07-282h 07
I Don't Have All The AnswersAn Upful Existence with ChantelThis episode I speak with Chantel Robertson, founder and owner of the ever-growing natural herb shop, Upful Blends. She shares her harrowing story of battling tumors, nerve damage from multiple car accidents and overcoming over 10 years depression. This conversation taps into the universal signs and messages so I hope this provides insight and inspiration for your journey in this life. I highly recommend her herbal blends as they have also supported not only her but me and many many others seeking natural alternatives to modern "medicine"
---
This episode is sponsored by
· Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. h...2020-07-0527 min
The Upful LIFE Podcast034: KIM DAWSON (vocalist - Matador Soul Sounds / Color Red / ex-Pimps of Joytime)Episode 034 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes vocalist KIM DAWSON to the show for an important discussion. A chat as necessary as it is enlightening, with memories uncomfortable and messages inspiring. Kim Dawson is currently a solo artist on Eddie Roberts' label Color Red, a co-frontwoman of Roberts' quasi-supergroup Matador Soul Sounds, a go-to singer for any number of collectives, tribute shows, sit-ins and such. Most recently she released the R&B single "Try" with Wil Blades, and sings her heart out on "Good Thang" with Crushed Velvet & the Velveteers, on Alan Evans' own Vintage League Music. However, I inv...2020-06-302h 01
The Upful LIFE Podcast033: DAVE from DOPEY PODCAST + KEITH GRINER (music photojournalist) - On Addiction & RecoveryEpisode 033 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes the legendary DAVE from DOPEY PODCAST! This conversation is a couple of years in the making, and is one helluva heart-filling, harrowing, ultimately heroic story of human resilience and the magic of recovery. Dave has been a fearless leader of the Dopey Nation for a few years now, and his wildly-popular podcast just clocked it’s 4 MILLIONTH DOWNLOAD about a week ago. Just an astonishing story with inspiring highs juxtaposed with some of the darkest lows, brutal losses and excruciating sacrifices along the way. Absolutely riveting 100-min conversation with Dave. Followed by a...2020-05-203h 00
The Upful LIFE Podcast032: ADAM DEITCH, + BOBBY & DENISE DEITCH, + RYAN ZOIDIS [Lettuce / BrkSci / AD4 / BDB] - Isolation Station v.4 : Adam Deitch BDAY ExtravaganzaADAM DEITCH B-DAY EXTRAVAGANZA! Episode 032 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* is proud to welcome the one & only ADAM DEITCH to the show! It's an honor & privilege for this esteemed gentleman to slide through for a proper powwow. To celebrate his 4/26 b-day, we dig into a pair of fresh records: Lettuce's new LP Resonate (5/8), & his own forthcoming solo electronic EP The Age of Imperfection, AND check-in with his fam. Literally! His wonderful parents BOBBY & DENISE DEITCH hop on the phone to discuss all things Deitch. Bobby Deitch Band new album dropping 5/15, so we get the scoop on that, plus loving parental...2020-04-252h 27
The Upful LIFE Podcast031: TED KARTZMAN & LIZ MOODY (LiveStream 101),+ JOSH BLAKE (iamavl, GFE), CHRIS GELBUDA (songwriter) - Isolation Station v.3The Upful LIFE Podcast proudly presents LIVESTREAM 101. This program intends to be a resource to the live music culture and music communities across genre, scene, and geography. Episode 031 - ISOLATION STATION v.3 will focus on blanketing the wild wild west of live-streaming, in the voices of four esteemed professionals in the digital music space, each certifiable live music lifers.
TED KARTZMAN (YouTube, co-founder of JamBase) & LIZ MOODY (digital music rights attorney, has worked wth Pandora, YouTube, Spotify, artists, festivals) - intro at 8:00, discussion at 13:00.
JOSH BLAKE (iamavl, JBOT, GFE) intro at 51:00
CHRIS GELBUDA (Nashville-based songwriter/guitarist) intro at 1h...2020-04-162h 21
The Upful LIFE Podcast030: JAMES CASEY (T.A.B.), SHIRA ELIAS (Turkuaz) , DJ Richie G, the Return of J.A. - ISOLATION STATION v.2The Upful LIFE Podcast - Episode 030 : Isolation Station v.2 welcomes JAMES CASEY (Trey Anastasio Band), SHIRA ELIAS (Turkuaz) to the show for fascinating conversations. In light of the current situation at hand, this podcast has transitioned to focus on what we are living through, both collectively and in quarantine. These are our stories. In addition, we also hear from a beloved member of the music community DJ Richie G, plus the long awaited return of J.A. To lift spirits, the pod wraps up with a magical personal reflection from the host.
RIP Ellis Marsalis, Bill Withers, Jo...2020-04-091h 54
The Upful LIFE Podcast029: KENDALL CORSO (Backline), CHRIS PERELLA (Ardmore Music Hall), BILLY IUSO - Isolation Station v.1Episode 029 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* switches the script in light of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Welcome 2 ISOLATION STATION v.1. For this episode, we'll have three shorter form interviews that directly address the fallout from the virus and it's paralyzing effect on the music culture, industry, and communities. I wanted to give people a platform and program that can communicate and connect different geographic areas, artists, activists, producers, promoters, movers, shakers, fans and the like. My intention is for this podcast to transition, and organically be in service to anyone it can reach, educate, entertain, inspire, and humor. Now...2020-04-011h 38
Life is a Festival#52 - The Marvelous Mother Shucker of Mardi Gras | Katrina Brees (The Bearded Oysters)It’s Mardi Gras season, oh Carnival Kings and Queens!
Today’s guest arrived in New Orleans as Karina Nathan and shortly thereafter Hurricane Katrina blew through. With no krewe for women under 30, she started her own, the Bearded Oysters of which she remains the Mother Shucker. She has many names but is known most widely by the hurricane’s namesake: Katrina.
Today on the show we go deep into the history of Mardi Gras with fabulous parades and exclusive balls, prideful showings and pubic wigs. Katrina shares why Mardi Gras beads are the hotdogs of the plastic world and how th...2020-02-202h 03
The Upful LIFE Podcast028: JESSICA DORE - @thejessicadore (Tarot, Psychology, Dancehall, NOLA)Episode 028 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes JESSICA DORE (@thejessicadore) to the show. On Twitter and Instagram, my longtime friend is a new-school tarot superstar, Jessica has hundreds of thousands of followers for her unique approach to tarot as a therapeutic tool. She's a licensed social worker, tarot practitioner and journalist/author interested in using tarot cards to help people understand the interplay between internal and external life. I'd seen a variety of media features about her in recent months, and made a mental note that she'd be an ideal guest for this show, which came about rather serendipitously....2020-02-201h 36
The Upful LIFE Podcast027: STEVE GORMAN (Black Crowes) Book Talk Live from San Francisco 1/19/2020Episode 027 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes the legendary STEVE GORMAN (Black Crowes) for a very special edition of this program. The longtime drummer and co-founder of The Black Crowes is doing a ton of media work, podcasts and live appearances in support of his riveting rock n' roll bio "Hard 2 Handle: The Life & Death of The Black Crowes, A Memoir". I was honored and truly touched when Steve personally reached out and asked me to host/moderate his book talk in San Francisco. The event took place on January 19, 2020 and was recorded with a live audience in the S...2020-02-111h 45
The Upful LIFE Podcast026: RYAN JALBERT (The Motet)After a brief pause for the cause, *The Upful LIFE Podcast* is back with Episode 026 featuring Ryan Jalbert of The Motet. In late December, on the heels of The Motet's co-headline funkstravaganza at the Fillmore with KDTU, Ryan and I finally caught up for an hour in downtown San Francisco. Jalbert was on his way to a jazz show at the Black Cat, but took timeout to make sure we got the proper time for a powwow. I've been a fan of his for several years now, and Ryan has been a listener to this podcast since almost the...2020-01-131h 41
The Upful LIFE Podcast025: ERIC KRASNO (Soulive, ex-Lettuce) / LEAH CONCIALDI (Color Red, ATOMGA, Tnertle)Episode 025 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes the legendary Eric Krasno to the show for a pretty sweet powwow on a number of salient topics from the guitarist/producer's illustrious career. Co-founder of Soulive, co-founder and former guitarist of Lettuce, Kraz was in the Bay Area in late September for a quick run with E3- (Eric Krasno Trio), at Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley, a club owned by Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead. In between soundcheck and the gig, Kraz and I sat down and chopped it up for nearly an hour, and trust it was...2019-11-231h 45
The Upful LIFE Podcast024: WIL BLADES (Organist - Adam Deitch Quartet / Amendola vs Blades)Episode 024 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes Hammond B3 organ maestro WIL BLADES to the show for a lengthy conversation about his career, Bay Area music culture, saddling up to jazz and funk legends, the Adam Deitch Quartet, Amendola vs. Blades, and beyond. From bright eyed young cat in Chicago, to one of the rising stars in jazz and groove music, he's among the more impressive organ players in the culture today.
Just a few days before he was moving to SoCal, Wil invited me over to his home in Berkeley, CA to have a spirited discussion...2019-11-052h 11
The Upful LIFE Podcast023: REUBEN SADOWSKY (Guayaki Yerba Mate) / BEAU WILLIAMS (Lettuce TM/PM)Episode 023 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes the one-and-only REUBEN SADOWSKY, ceabador with Guayaki Yerba Mate, close friend/former tour manager to Rising Appalachia, awe-inspiring action sportsman, festival fixture and 11-year Burner. We caught up with him for nearly an hour during Planet Home, a 3-day solutionary conference that took place in San Francisco in early September; Reuben was there on behalf of Guayaki's Come to Life program. Fascinating conversation with one of the most interesting people I've ever met. After a 5 minute poetic interlude from a dear homie, the second interview is with Beau Williams, Tour Manager/Production M...2019-10-101h 45
The Upful LIFE Podcast022: SMASHELTOOTH (West Coast DJ/Producer)Episode 022 of *The Upful Life Podcast* w/s/g Smasheltooth is live and direkt! This celebrated, colorful, & outspoken West Coast selectah looks back on a decade in the DJ game, but of course we dig deeper into myriad topics. Ever since I first came upon her at the Haven in Nevada City, CA opening for Mad Zach in 2016, I've been intrigued by this dynamic persona. Began following her on social media and over the past few years, have become a big fan of her DJ sets and out-sized personality.
Smash was in...2019-09-171h 49
The Upful LIFE Podcast021: NIKKI GLASPIE, NICK CASSARINO (The Nth Power) / CLAY McCABE (Zipper Rescue, artist)Featured guests NIKKI GLASPIE and NICK CASSARINO of THE NTH POWER, as well as an introspective chat with Oregon-based artist/entrepreneur CLAY McCABE (of ZIPPER RESCUE). I am lucky and honored to call each of these inspiring human beings my dear friends in real life. The music of The Nth Power often reaches me with an emotional impact that is unrivaled in the culture today, and in that resonant reaction, I know I am far from alone. Nikki and Nicky Cake were kind enough to make some time for separate interviews, conducted in the cozy confines of the legendary Hig...2019-08-131h 57
The Upful LIFE Podcast020: ANNA MOSS (Handmade Moments) / HILARY GLEASON (Level)Episode 020 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* returns in its new every-third-week scheduling, back in the saddle with a revealing interview with very special guest Ms. Anna Moss, one half of the quirky, funky, folky, jazzy, and downright intoxicating musical duo Handmade Moments. The group, whom I've worked with a couple of times in the past few years, were coming through the Bay Area for an exquisite gig in a redwood grove at UC Berkeley's picturesque botanical gardens. In between soundcheck, their masterful performance, and a quick departure northbound for the iconic Oregon Country Fair, Anna Moss was kind enough t...2019-07-171h 53
The Upful LIFE Podcast019: LUKE QUARANTA (Toubab Krewe) / THE QUICKENING (Rachel Murray & Blake Quick)Episode 019 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes our good friend LUKE QUARANTA to the show for another long and winding discussion, the last interview I conducted over two weeks in NOLA during Jazz Fest 50. I first encountered Luke and his band TOUBAB KREWE at Bear Creek Music and Arts Festival, at Spirit of Suwannee Music Park, around 2008 or 2009. Ever since, I've been a big fan of his percussion magic, and of course the amazing Toubab Krewe, who released their latest LP Stylo in 2018. Toubab Krewe is always very active over Jazz Fest, and the members play in a lot o...2019-06-262h 05
The Upful LIFE Podcast018: JON PHILLIPS (Silverback Mgmt: Stoopid, Fishbone, GPJ. Dumpsta, ex-Sublime) / SAM D'ARCANGELO (Cannabis Voter Project, Headcount, Journalist)Episode 018 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* returns with very special guest JON PHILLIPS, founder of Silverback Music, a management company based in Southern California. Jon is the former manager of Sublime- going back to the early 90's - and currently works with George Porter Jr., Fishbone, Dumpstaphunk, The Grouch and Eligh, Slightly Stoopid, among other successful contemporary artists. Jon and I have a little bit of a personal friendship and professional relationship over the past few years, but I don't really know him well at all. As such, it was like a class in session, as Jon took me...2019-06-072h 05
The Upful LIFE Podcast017: BILLY IUSO (BIRN, GPJ, Anders) / ERIC BENNY BLOOM (Lettuce, ex-Pretty Lights A.F.B.)
Episode 017 of *The Upful Life Podcast* gets Big Easy-busy with two crucial members of the Crescent City committee, as I sit down with NOLA-based rock n’roll troubadour Billy Iuso (BIRN) for a lengthy powwow, and chase that with 40 minutes of pure, uncut Eric Benny Bloom (of Lettuce.) Super stoked to continue riding high on N’awlinz and Jazz Fest with these two fascinating pals.
BILLY IUSO interview starts at 9min 30sec
Billy Iuso is Ep 017's featured guest and we set up shop in his uptown NOLA backyard hang, for a lovely conversation...2019-05-222h 30
The Upful LIFE Podcast016: ROBERT WALTER (Greyboy Allstars / RW20 / Mike Gordon) & JESSE PAIGE (Owner: Blue Nile NOLA)Episode 016 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* features a thoughtful conversation with stalwart keyboardist ROBERT WALTER, founding member of The Greyboy Allstars, leader of his own Robert Walter's 20th Congress (RW20), and of late, Mike Gordon. I was lucky to track down Robert at his rented crib in the Lower Garden District in NOLA, during the comparatively mellow 'daze between' Jazz Fest weekends. The interview actually took place the day before his 49th birthday, and Robert was in a great mood and eager to share some memories and perspective. Since it was Jazz Fest and (naturally) he had a crawfish...2019-05-101h 32
The Upful LIFE Podcast015: EDDIE ROBERTS (New Mastersounds/Matador! Soul Sounds), SPUT & NATE (Ghost-Note), NOLA JAZZFEST AFTER DARK (Preview)Episode 015 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* features the one and only EDDIE ROBERTS, guitarist/founder of New Mastersounds, and more recently, of Matador! Soul Sounds. Eddie is also one of four men at the helm of Color Red, a record label/brand based out of Denver, Colorado. For well over 20 years, Eddie has been an omnipresent force in the jazz/jam/funk scenes from the UK to the Bay Area and all points between. During a mid-February three night stand at Boom Boom Room in SF (with The Eddie/Logic Project, and his own Eddie Roberts' West Coast Sounds), E...2019-04-182h 05
The Upful LIFE Podcast014: ADAM "SHMEEANS" SMIRNOFF (Lettuce) / J.A. on The DirtEpisode 014 of *The Upful Life Podcast* welcomes the incredible Adam "Shmeeans" Smirnoff (guitarist, co-founder of Lettuce) to the show for an hour-long chat that I am quite proud of. It’s no secret that Lettuce is my favorite band and has been for some time; naturally I was stoked AF to host a member on the podcast. We linked up at the phenomenal Barbarycoastcollective dab lounge for a sweet powwow on all things SMZA.
SHMEEANS INTERVIEW BEGINS at 9 MINS
Topics include the recent LETT run with John Scofield at SFJAZZ, as well as Lettuce’s hum...2019-03-281h 45
The Upful LIFE Podcast013: SHIRA ELIAS (Turkuaz vocalist) / IRMZIE takes the BayEpisode 013 of *The Upful Life Podcast* welcomes very special guest Shira Elias of Turkuaz ! We caught up with the vixen vocalist on a SF tour stop in early February. Despite being the "newest member" of the band, Shira was among the first in the KUAZ clan that I connected with off the stage, and we'd been eyeing a proper long form powwow ever since I first interviewed her for L4LM a couple years back.
"The Question" by TURKUAZ 2.02.19 Fillmore SF (13min mark)
SHIRA INTERVIEW BEGINS AT 17MINS
Shira explains just how she...2019-03-141h 41
The Upful LIFE Podcast012: NAUGHTY PRINCESS/ DAILY BREAD/ SHEPHERD MEADOW FARMS/ RIP KOFIEpisode 012 of *The Upful Life Podcast* welcomes the lovely and talented Jasmine Fraser, a West Coast DJ best known as Naughty Princess. Jasmine is a rising star in the bass music underground, and we were lucky to get her on the show for fascinating conversation that lasts just under an hour. This took place the day after her huge set at Resonate in Oakland, and Jasmine was a really good sport this rainy San Francisco afternoon. We had to chase my phone down, because I dropped it somewhere in transit, and luckily a Good Samaritan scooped it up. Once I re...2019-02-282h 20
The Upful LIFE Podcast011: JEFF FRANCA (Thievery Corporation, Congo Sanchez)/ BECAUSE Of The LOTUSEpisode 011 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes JEFF FRANCA, drummer of Thievery Corporation and founder of Congo Sanchez and Natural Selectah, to the show for an informative and emotional powwow. Jeff is a rising star in the Denver music scene, and traces his musical and personal roots back to the District of Columbia. We took a solid ninety minutes to chop it up about a number of salient topics that ran the gamut and it was a thoroughly enjoyable conversation that I think will resonate with the Upful LIFE listeners.
We begi...2019-02-152h 12
The Upful LIFE Podcast010: JEFFREY DUPUIS (Addiction Counselor / Concert Photographer)
Episode 010 of *The Upful Life Podcast* welcomes a very special guest in Jeffrey Dupuis, longtime music/concert photographer, and professional Addiction Counselor. A spirited convo with an old friend, inspirational human, & someone who is a treasure to several communities.
As the host of this show, I am proud to unveil an episode with a focus on Addiction/Recovery, including some honest and transparent reflections on my own struggle. In recent months I've felt called to find a greater purpose in helping people fight their way out of this darkness, to fin...2019-01-292h 32
The Upful LIFE Podcast009: MAYTEANA MORALES (Pimps of Joytime, Walk Talk), MARIA HERRERA (Journalist/Activist/Consultant)
Episode 009 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* is back with Brooklyn, NY-based Mayteana Morales, singer/percussionist with Pimps of Joytime, and leading an exciting new project Walk Talk. Ms. Morales has been wowing audiences with the Pimps for many years, and it’s been a joy to observe her blossoming as a singer, on the congas, and now as a songwriter in her new endeavor. Mayteana was out in NorCal pulling double duty, playing a pair of gigs with the Pimps of Joytime (Oakland and Lake Tahoe) as well as three shows with Walk Talk. As such...2019-01-172h 16
The Upful LIFE Podcast008: RYAN RISING (Permaculture Action Network)Episode 008 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes Community Organizer/Permaculture Educator RYAN RISING of Permaculture Action Network to the show for a profoundly informative chat on a gang of salient topics. Ryan was kind enough to invite me over to his beautiful Berkeley backyard garden, where we linked up and sat down for a lengthy conversation.
For several years, Ryan has been a force of nature in the music community, leading the Permaculture Action Network in various collaborations with musicians and festivals; his work with The Polish Ambassador in 2014 on the groundbreaking Pushing Through the Pavement Tour an...2019-01-032h 00
The Upful LIFE Podcast007: DERRICK SMOKER (SOUL Brass Band's Derrick Freeman)Episode 007 of *The Upful Life Podcast* comin' atcha with special guest Derrick Smoker, NOLA's own drummer/emcee/singer-songwriter/jazz-cat/lightning rod. Back in late October, the man they call D-Free was kind enough to meet me midday, somewhere near the Bywater, for a colorful stroll thru his career & journey. Embarking from Houston to NOLA in 1992, to study Jazz at UNO, we revisit all the people, places, and experiences that life as a Crescent City working musician will manifest. AKA Derrick Freeman, who you may know from Soul Brass Band, Smokers World, Kermit Ruffins and the BBQ Swingers, Low End Theory...2018-12-122h 13
The Upful LIFE Podcast006: RANDOM RAB / Personal reflections from B.Getz / .Paak's Oxnard & more
Episode 006 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* is proud to welcome Random Rab to the show for what is an enlightening conversation, a free exchange of ideas cutting a wide swath over his magical journey and meteoric career. But first, shout-outs to scene stalwarts JamBase and Silverback Music Management, a look toward New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, before we kick things off. A rundown of what's on the horizon for Upful LIFE coverage in December, including DJ Williams/Shots Fired, Dimond Saints, Thriftworks, the annual Favorite Albums listicle, and much more. We take a moment to discuss how pe...2018-11-282h 39
The Upful LIFE Podcast005: KATRINA BREES/ J.A. Talks Halloween in Vegas
Episode 005 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes New Orleans artist/activist/parade-maker KATRINA BREES to the show for a lengthy convo that takes a long, winding, interesting path in a plethora of colorful and emotional directions. I first met Katrina Brees in the early 2000s when I first started going to Jazz Fest, long before she'd taken that moniker, back when she was partner to a dear friend of mine in NOLA. Even though we were a bunch of "hippie bros" in that era, I was most definitely attuned to the kaleidoscopic vibration that was emanating from Ka...2018-11-132h 33
The Upful LIFE Podcast004: WEEDIE BRAIMAH / HULA 2018 Highlights, Jamiroquai feat. Shady HornsEpisode 004 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes master djembefola Weedie Braimah to the show for an enlightening chat, in the aftermath of his seismic seance at Music Box Village in NOLA this past May during Jazz Fest. The performance remains one of the most exhilarating and emotionally-connected artistic expeditions that i've ever had the privilege of experiencing. I wrote at length about Weedie Braimah & the Essence of Time in my annual Jazz Fest reflection on L4LM and thankfully FunkIt was there to capture it live on video for all to enjoy. Weedie explains his mission as an artist and...2018-11-021h 22
The Upful LIFE Podcast003: SCOTTY ZWANG (Ghost Light)Episode 003 of The Upful LIFE Podcast features drummer SCOTTY ZWANG, currently of Ghost Light. Scotty has been an enigmatic persona in the Northeast jam/jamtronica scenes for well over a decade, and is a fixture on the Philly musical landscape. The erstwhile rhythm wizard goes deep in this interview, taking us back to his humble beginnings in New York, learning the drums and joining alternative rock bands as a youth (Code Anchor). We then embark on the lengthy discussion of his entire career arc, including his stint in Sonic Spank, which is when I first encountered him at The...2018-10-191h 39
The Upful LIFE Podcast002 : CHRIS PERELLA (Ardmore Music Hall, The Blockley, Philadelphia)Episode 002 of The Upful LIFE Podcast, featuring a long-form interview with Chris Perella, of Philadelphia-area jam hub Ardmore Music Hall (AMH). Before assuming the reigns (and ultimately heading up a team to buy) at Ardmore Music Hall, Chris was manager and talent buyer at storied, infamous Philly club The Blockley, which operated (as CP details, by the seat of it’s pants and skin of it’s teeth) for about five years. I had the pleasure and privilege of working for Mr. Perella at The Blockley for a year and a half or so, during this time period Chris both befr...2018-10-031h 28
The Upful LIFE Podcast001: MICHELANGELO CARUBBA - (Turkuaz), J.A. talks Phish Summer TourPilot episode of The Upful LIFE Podcast, hosted/curated by B.Getz, a music-culture reporter and historian. We’re lucky to have our first guest TURKUAZ drummer MICHELANGELO CARUBBA for a long-form sitdown, which took place during High Sierra in NorCal back in early July. (The early part of the interview takes place while a band is playing nearby, please excuse the background blues; we eventually relocated to a quasi-suitable quarters for the majority of the convo.). Mikey talks ‘Kuazology, their live album 040717, Denny Laine and playing with heroes, his lifelong connection to Tower of Power drummer David Garibaldi. After the m...2018-09-211h 13