Episode 4 - Pacifica Sommers

“What if everything just turns out ok?"  Visit with Nashville songwriter Melody Walker in this latest episode of River of Suck podcast with an ear to the challenges of being a musician in a changing world.  Join the conversation as Melody shares insights on songwriting, addresses sexism in the bluegrass scene, and discusses maintaining boundaries and resilience in the industry.  Hear about the formation of 'Bertha,' a Grateful Dead cover band in drag, and of the dark side of TikTok. With a call to action to be better through collaboration, find out why Melody says "Do the stupid thing - Do your worst idea!"

Dive into the River of Suck as fiddle legend, Darol Anger, shares hard-earned wisdom with River of Suck listeners in this fun and insightful episode.  Delving into his personal odyssey through time with the violin, Darol explores the significance of technique in music and the importance of pushing one's musical limits.  With grace and humor, he navigates through the River of Suck and celebrates its counterpart: the Reserve of Amazingness!  Whether you're a fiddler, a musician honing your craft, or an appreciator of acoustic music, this episode is a must-listen.

Live from Fiddle Hell Massachusetts, Andy chats with contemporary mandolinist Jacob Jolliff! From bluegrass to jazz, Andy and Jacob compare notes on their time at Berklee with John McGann, the evolution of their musical goals, the magic of listening, as well as the virtues of getting lost (in the groove)! If you ever wonder what it takes to shred, look no further! You, too, may find yourself wanting to extend the hang. 

Violinist, educator, and composer, Christian Howes, joins host, Andy Reiner, on an exploration into the River of Suck. Together, they delve into the art of setting achievable goals, and of finding the best ways to approach practicing. Christian shares his personal journey, exploring fear's role in personal growth and offering practical strategies to conquer it.  Listen in for an inspiring conversation chock full of with actionable steps to navigate the River of Suck on your own life's journey!

Join host Andy Reiner and his special guest Judy Hyman in this live episode at Fiddle Hell Online as they explore the journey of her band, The Horse Flies.  From working as a librarian to becoming a film scoring composer, Judy shares her experiences of balancing her passion for music with a serious job. Dive into the creative process as they discuss the importance of perseverance, embracing the messy aspects of music, and finding joy in the process. Uncover insights on dealing with challenges, making albums, and the thrill of creating music, and tune in for an inspiring conversation on the River of Suck podcast!"

Julian Carr explains that being a professional skier and cliff jumping world-record holder is less about being fearless than you might think.  Sharing his experiences with host Andy Reiner, Carr relays how being cool, calm, and collected in the presence of fear can change your life.  This episode promises that fear is not a roadblock and that trusting yourself is key. Carr talks about how he expanded his comfort zone, what can happen if you embrace things you are scared of, and the beauty of being in the moment. Listen to hear how the River of Suck affects even the best athletes. 

Being unique in a society that sets expectations and ingrained biases can be a difficult task. However, Kween Werk, our guest, illustrates how her individuality enables her to thrive in her surroundings. As a social justice activist and environmentalist, she acknowledges that being a woman of color has made her feel like an outsider in the spaces she cherishes. Nonetheless, discovering her true self and identity has empowered her to succeed beyond measure. In a stunning outdoor setting, host Andy Reiner and Kween Werk discuss how inclusive spaces are crucial and essential for all individuals, regardless of their identities.

Join jazz violin virtuoso, Jason Anick, as he shares his personal journey through the River of Suck. Jason and host, Andy Reiner, explore strategies for reframing shortcomings, navigating comparisons to others, and reimagining the growth mindset.  In a River of Suck podcast first, Jason’s father waltzes into the conversation to share childhood stories about Jason.  And Jason reveals a hidden truth: there is no top of the mountain.  The episode finishes with a BONUS conversation with River of Suck podcast interns from CU Boulder - on skis, on a chairlift!

Sit down with harmonica master, Chris Turner, as he recounts his wild and often misadventurous stories with host Andy Reiner. Together, they discuss profound topics such as the ways which music keeps us alive, how art is bigger than what we make it to be, and what music really is. From free jazz jam sessions to going through a minefield as a stowaway, Chris reflects on all the chaos that makes being a musician a one-of-a-kind lifestyle, and how the River of Suck doesn’t have to be all that bad.

Embark on a magical journey through the universe of sound guided by the Vibe Wizard herself, electric violist Martha Mooke. Martha has created musical arrangements for the likes of Phoebe Bridgers and Sturgill Simpson, performed alongside Elton John and Philip Glass, and is a trailblazer in strings education. Explore the philosophy of improvisation, listen to host Andy Reiner muse about goals, and shatter doubt from the heart with a throng of electric strings. Hear Martha Mooke connect the body to the mind. Soak in soothing modern soundscapes and learn how to become the youest you.