Circling The Drain

Karen Staley has spent decades on the inside of Nashville’s music business — as a songwriter, performer and background singer — and this week she joins Circling the Drain to tell the stories behind the songs. Karen takes Johnny Bozeman, Jay Harper and Jim McCarthy back to her early days entering a talent contest at the legendary Wheeling Jamboree, her move to Nashville and the unlikely series of events that eventually put her on the road with Reba McEntire. She also tells the story behind Tracy Byrd’s “The Keeper of the Stars,” its journey to becoming a number-one hit and ACM Song of the Year, and the unforgettable night George Strait told her he wished she had pitched the song to him. Karen’s response — at least internally? “Who do you think we wrote it for?” We also get into her years around Faith Hill, the realities of being a songwriter versus an artist, how dramatically the economics of songwriting have changed, and why Karen is actually encouraged by some of the young writers and artists making country…

Devon O’Day has been part of Nashville radio, music and entertainment for more than four decades — and she has the stories to prove it. Devon joins Johnny Bozeman, Jay Harper and Jim McCarthy for a hilarious trip through the glory days of Nashville radio, including her years working with the legendary Gerry House and The House Foundation, what made that show work, and what it was like doing truly live morning radio before there was even a dump button. She also tells the unlikely story of how “Tennessee Whiskey” songwriter Linda Hargrove helped launch her songwriting career, talks about moving to New York with her sister Faith Ford, and shares how a lifelong love of animals became a major part of her life. Then the conversation gets more personal. Devon talks about getting fired, betting on herself and launching Devin’s Farm, as well as sobriety, faith, family and what more than 40 years in Nashville have taught her about starting over. Plus: Buc-ee’s, old Nashville, Cletus T. Judd, T. Graham Brown, Vin…

Radio used to be the dream. Now some veteran broadcasters are getting shown the door over Zoom — and one of us was recently offered $14 an hour to get back behind the mic. Welcome to Episode 51 of Circling the Drain. Johnny Bozeman, Jay Harper and Jim McCarthy take a look at the current state of radio, including the latest round of iHeart layoffs, longtime personalities suddenly finding themselves out of work, the slow disappearance of AM radio and a question nobody in radio used to want to answer: How much does this business actually PAY anymore? Plus, the guys look back at the radio they grew up listening to, how Nashville radio has changed, the strange ability broadcasters develop to instantly turn "it on" when the mic opens, and some absolutely unfiltered stories from their own days behind the board. Including the night Johnny may have fallen asleep while playing Willie Nelson on the radio. Oh...and Circling the Drain may not be called Circling the Drain much longer. Apparently inviting an artist onto a…

Traditional country singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, and Eagleville city councilman Craig Campbell sits down with the Circling the Drain crew to talk about his wild ride from small-town Georgia to Nashville stages and successful coffeehouse-venue brand Grindstone Cowboy. Craig shares how playing piano in church led to Lower Broadway gigs, touring with Luke Bryan and Tracy Byrd, and eventually landing his first record deal that produced the hit Family Man. He gets honest about financial wake-up calls, label roller coasters, not being allowed to play on his own records, and why he’s now all-in on authenticity, entrepreneurship, and community. The conversation dives into: – Growing up in Lyons/Vidalia, GA and finding music through church and gospel – Working as a correctional officer in a level 5 men’s prison before chasing his Nashville dream – Cutting his teeth as one of the few piano players on Lower Broadway and singing countless demos – The story behind Family Man, its music video, and how his family…

Circling the Drain welcomes brothers Jesse and Noah Bellamy to talk about their new album Sunshine Shop, the Bellamy family legacy, and why the best songs are “imperfectly perfect.” They dive into growing up on a Florida cattle ranch, watching their dad and uncle (the Bellamy Brothers) build a career, and carving out their own sound rooted in harmony, story songs, and live-band energy instead of over-gridded perfection. The conversation hits everything from AI in music and the future of live performance to Nashville’s changing skyline, vinyl nostalgia, DIY video strategy, and surviving horse-drawn chaos on Broadway. Jesse and Noah also perform two songs live in-studio, showcasing the sibling blend and storytelling that set them apart. Timed highlights [00:01:36] Introducing Jesse and Noah Bellamy and their new album Sunshine Shop [00:02:28] Growing up on a Florida cattle ranch and the real history of American cowboys [00:03:35] The Bellamy Brothers’ LA era, Let Your Love Flow and returning to…

Nashville legend, attorney, former councilman and stand-up comic Adam Dred joins Johnny B and J. Harper from Nantucket to talk about everything from politics and scooters to sharks, data centers, cab laws and comedy wars. Adam walks through his infamous “English-speaking cab drivers” bill, his near-fatal stroke and brain bleed, why he splits time between Nashville and Nantucket, and how he went from radio and stand-up to law and animal advocacy. He also dishes on Trace Adkins, Ralphie May, Steve Harvey, Joe Rogan, Bob Saget, bad Californians in Nashville, and why wind farms and data centers make him crazy. If you love Nashville, comedy, behind-the-scenes radio stories and unfiltered political takes, this episode is packed. Timed Highlights (for chapters/clips) 02:13 Life in Nantucket and buying manfromnantucket.com from Russians 03:27 Man From Nantucket merch and fundraising for animal charities 03:49 Bonnie Dred, the toilet-trained cat and viral TV coverage 04:19 Splitting life and law practice between…

On this episode of Circling The Drain, Johnny B, Jay Harper and Jim McCarthy sit down with Tanya Montana and Shelli Coe, daughters of outlaw country legend David Allan Coe. They share what it was really like growing up on the road, clear the air about racist allegations and the infamous X‑rated albums, and explain the truth behind the estate, the will, and why the kids aren’t “silver spoon” heirs. Tanya and Shelli talk about their own musical journeys, the Goodbye Girls Nashville shop, reconnecting with long‑lost siblings, and how their mom Jody quietly held the whole family together. This is one of the most honest, emotional, and human conversations you’ll hear about fame, family, and faith in country music. Timed Highlights / Chapters: 02:00 – Growing up as Coe kids and Tyler’s guitar chops on the road with Blackberry Smoke 05:01 – Shelli’s Texas roots, Dripping Springs, Willie Nelson’s grandkids and writing songs from childhood 06:25 – The family album, Heavenly Father, Holy Mother and 3‑year‑old Shelli…

On this episode of Circling The Drain, Johnny B, Jay Harper, and Jim talk about how political division has seeped into every corner of entertainment and media. They trade stories from talk radio, debate Trump’s influence on patriot events, and unpack why fans are turning on artists who get too political from the stage. The guys also reminisce about women who changed rock (Linda Ronstadt, Ann and Nancy Wilson, Amy Lee), underrated girl and boy bands, and classic film stars and directors. They hit on the Morgan Wallen and Jason Aldean controversies, the 250th celebration tied to Trump, CMA Fest politics, and how talk radio and cable news are burning people out. It’s part nostalgia, part media critique, and part “can we please just enjoy a show again?” Includes: – Behind-the-scenes stories from talk radio and WTN – How politics hijacked July 4th and the 250th celebration – Country music’s culture war: Jason Aldean, Morgan Wallen, Beyoncé, CMA/ACM awards – Why conservative talk radio has become an echo chamber –…

Country icon Trace Adkins gets candid about buying his Tennessee farm, Nashville’s explosive growth, and why “perfect” modern records leave him cold. He shares wild stories with Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, Buck Owens, and more, plus visions for a catfish joint called Hot Mamas. Trace Adkins is back for part three, and this time he goes deep on life at the farm, Nashville’s real estate explosion, and why old-school, imperfect records still hit harder than today’s polished tracks. From Merle Haggard in boxer shorts with a joint over his ear to Waylon cussing the bugs onstage and Buck Owens’ brutally honest “low note” advice, Trace tells the kind of stories only a true country legend can. He and the guys also riff on Nashville turning into a “clean New Orleans,” soccer vs. hockey, the changing studio scene, in-ear monitors vs. wedges, health food vs. fried catfish, and his dream of opening a catfish joint called “Hot Mamas.” If you love real country, road stories, and unfiltered opinions, this is your…

In Part 2 of our deep-dive with country icon Trace Adkins, we get the stories behind his most emotional and controversial songs, from “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk” to “You’re Gonna Miss This” and “Arlington.” Trace shares powerful memories from Arlington National Cemetery, his candid take on Donald Trump, and the radio days with Phil Valentine that almost got people fired. We also dig into his acting career, how he met his wife on a movie set, the wild origin of his dog “Gary Busey,” and why he believes live shows are now the only truly “real” part of the music business. 0:43 – If Trace had to be in a tribute band forever, who would he choose? 1:36 – Waylon Jennings’ “Honky Tonk Heroes” and how it inspired Trace’s “Dangerous Man” album cover 3:25 – The grind of album photo shoots and making a real, gritty cover shot 4:12 – The Phil Valentine show, stepdad life, and getting sick of “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk” 5:44 – Why “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk” is cleverly written, not just a novelty hit 6:42 – How the song became…

Country legend Trace Adkins joins Circling the Drain for a raw, funny, and unfiltered conversation about survival, success, and the scars he picked up along the way. Trace opens up about growing up in small-town Louisiana, singing bass in church, working dangerous oil rigs in the Gulf, getting shot by an ex-wife, flipping a tractor, multiple open-heart surgeries, and why he still prefers hard work on the farm to life on the tour bus. He also talks about his breakout in Nashville, label politics, 30 years in country music, and how acting and voiceover work have kept him relevant. Along the way you’ll hear wild stories featuring Gene Simmons, Mark Wahlberg, Kurt Russell, Donald Trump, Blake Shelton, and more – plus why the national anthem still makes him nervous every single time. This is Part 1 of our Trace Adkins series on Circling the Drain. 1:56 – Trace walks in like a superstar and why everyone respects him 2:26 – The only “tangible result” of being on stage: applause and then back to the bus 3:03 – Farm…

Veteran bassist and author Mickey Hayes joins Circling the Drain to pull back the curtain on the wild, brilliant and chaotic world of country legend David Allan Coe. From blacked‑out tour buses and outlaw bikers to wigs, panthers, boats and hit songs, Mickey shares what it was really like to live on the edge with one of country music’s most controversial figures. Mickey talks about joining Coe’s band in 1979, surviving the Outlaws MC, refitting buses and boats in the Florida Keys, the truth behind the “death row” myth, and why Coe was the PT Barnum of country music. He also dives into Coe’s overlooked Columbia catalog, the making of “The Ride,” working with Warren Haynes, and how those years inspired his book “My Life on the Road with David Allen Coe” and a late‑career songwriting burst. If you love outlaw country, road stories, and unfiltered music history, this episode is packed with stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Timed highlights 02:56 Miami club gig and the four‑barrel derringer on the monitor…

Sheila Shipley Biddy went from small‑town radio and seven failed interviews to running one of Nashville’s most powerful record labels. In this episode, the first woman to head a major label on Music Row sits down with us to talk about discovering artists, fighting industry sexism, and the stories behind some of country music’s biggest careers. Sheila shares intimate memories of working with legends like Glen Campbell, Waylon Jennings, Alabama, Roger Miller, Don Williams, Patty Loveless, Gary Allan, and LeAnn Womack. She opens up about fighting for “difficult” artists, taking career gambles, launching Decca Records, and what really changed when Napster, streaming, and 360 deals hit the business. In the most personal part of the conversation, Sheila reflects on her faith, her work with Music Health Alliance, and surviving the devastating loss of her husband and son within months of each other. If you care about country music history, radio, or how the record business really works behind the scenes, this is a…

Award-winning artist and multi-instrumentalist Chris Golden joins Johnny B and Jay Harper to swap stories from a lifetime in music. From growing up in the Golden family dynasty (son of Oak Ridge Boys’ William Lee Golden), to playing for every living U.S. president, to singing with his kids and racking up 478,000 miles on the road, this episode is loaded with behind-the-scenes tales, faith, family, and a lot of laughs. Chris talks about: – Growing up on the Alabama–Florida line in a deep musical family – The Oaks’ gospel-to-country transition and backlash from the “church crowd” – Forming The Goldens and Golden Spear, Muscle Shoals sessions, and label drama – Playing the White House, One America Appeal, and hanging with multiple presidents – Touring life, that red sparkle Ludwig snare, and his monster hybrid drum kit – Voiceover work (Heinz 57, ad auditions, and chasing the “Sam Elliott” spec) – Recording 34 songs with his dad and brother, and now sharing the stage with his kids – His upcoming album “A Better…

Larry Stewart, the voice of Restless Heart and member of The Frontmen, joins Circling The Drain to talk about breaking through in 80s and 90s country, early resistance from Music Row, touring with Alabama, and how one phone call changed his life. Larry shares the origin stories of Restless Heart and The Frontmen, the realities of road life, raising a family while constantly touring, and why today’s country boom feels bigger than ever. The crew also digs into modern country (Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Ella Langley), how AI is already reshaping the music business, why live shows are more important than ever, and what it really takes to stay married 40+ years in this industry. If you love 90s country, harmony-driven bands, and real behind-the-scenes stories, this one’s loaded. 02:24 Six straight number ones, becoming “road dogs,” and the Wheels era 03:36 Why radio embraced Restless Heart before the industry did 04:37 How a Belmont kid working at the Country Music Hall of Fame became the lead singer…

Johnny B, Jay Harper, and Jim McCarthy dive into how Nashville and Middle Tennessee have changed under the wave of California and out-of-state transplants. From McMansions and roaming dogs to the death of “old” Music Row, they unpack what’s been gained, what’s been lost, and why some newcomers bring their problems with them. They also hit on the impact of the Telecommunications Act on radio, the shift in the music and movie industries, old money vs new money, the immigrant work ethic, and how social media turned everyone into a political pundit. If you love Nashville, radio, music history, and a good rant about culture, money, and manners, this one’s for you. Timed Highlights: 01:17 California and LA “refugees” landing in Tennessee 03:20 From farmland to McMansions: Johnny’s neighborhood transforms 05:13 “The Duttons” move in: roaming dogs, dune buggies, and entitlement 08:05 No-income-tax migration: Texas, Florida, Tennessee and beyond 10:11 Wichita, Montana, Idaho and the new playgrounds for the wealthy…

Circling The Drain welcomes artist and storyteller Jared Rogers, with a special guest drop‑in from country legend John Berry. They dive deep into what’s happened to the magic of music: from growing up around Kenny Rogers and Opryland to the harsh reality of streaming payouts, AI “artists,” and the corporatization of radio and Nashville. Jared shares the story behind his powerful duet with John Berry, “Bridge We All Must Cross,” how faith and real-life struggle shape his writing, and why he’s pushing back against the way DSPs and AI are devaluing human creativity. If you care about real songs, real musicians, vinyl, radio, and the future of music in an AI world, this one hits home. 2:42 Growing up around the business: Kenny Rogers, Tanya Tucker, Lorrie Morgan, Joe Diffie 3:35 Falling in love with storytelling, songwriting and the stage 3:56 John Berry joins the show from the yard in his work shirt 4:32 How the Jared Rogers & John Berry duet came together 5:41 John on choosing “Bridge We All Must Cross” and…

On this episode of Circling The Drain, the three J’s sit down with Marconi Award–winning talk host and former WTN program director Dan Mandis for a deep dive into his 30+ years in radio. From cutting his teeth at legendary KFI in Los Angeles with Dr. Laura, to building syndication the hard way, to steering SuperTalk 99.7 WTN through the loss of Phil Valentine, Dan opens up about the highs, lows, and realities of a life behind the mic. You’ll hear how he: - Went from board-op and traffic guy in LA to hosting major-market and national shows - Helped grow Dr. Laura’s show station by station before syndication was “plug-and-play” - Transitioned from producer to host and program director across LA, New York, Dallas, Fort Wayne, Colorado Springs, Denver, and Nashville - Dealt with overnights, early mornings, burnout, and moving his family all over the country - Survived industry cutbacks, never technically got “fired,” and kept landing on his feet - Navigated the aftermath of Phil Valentine’s passing and kept WTN…

On this episode of Circling The Drain, Johnny B, Jay Harper and James Patrick McCarthy sit down with guitarist and broadcaster Dez Dickerson – best known as Prince’s original guitarist from the 1999 and Little Red Corvette era. Dez takes us from his early days in Midwestern cover bands to his legendary audition with Prince, life on the road, opening for the Rolling Stones, his faith journey, leaving the band just as they were about to headline stadiums, and his unexpected path into conservative talk radio. Along the way, the guys dive deep into Jimi Hendrix’s legacy, the darker side of the music business, the opioid epidemic and fentanyl, and why modern rock rarely hits as hard as it used to. What you’ll hear in this episode: - Dez’s wild origin story, starting professional gigs at 14 without even a driver’s license - The real story behind his Prince audition and how “having the vibe” got him the gig - Inside the infamous Rolling Stones opening shows and how Hells Angels changed the narrative - Why he walked…

In this episode of Circling The Drain, Johnny B, Jay Harper, and Jim McCarthy dive deep into the changing world of music and radio from the perspective of insiders who have lived it. They start with why some artists get massive tribute concerts while others do not, then slide into a raw, honest look at country radio’s glory days, its corporate-driven decline, and what happens to artists and broadcasters when the industry moves on. From Taylor Hawkins and Eddie Van Halen, to Waylon Jennings, Jason Aldean, Kacey Musgraves, and Tim McGraw, the guys unpack how careers peak and fade, how politics can tank a fan base, and why loyalty in production teams still matters. Along the way, you will hear behind the scenes stories from Nashville radio, Country Radio Seminar, hall of fame inductions, and on air rivalries the hosts now regret. It is a brutally honest, funny, and nostalgic ride through a business that is, quite literally, circling the drain. Listen for – Why some legends get big tribute concerts and others…

In this powerful episode of Circling the Drain, Johnny B and Jay Harper sit down with legendary drummer Zoro (Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown, and more) to explore his extraordinary journey from growing up in Compton and rural Oregon poverty to becoming a world‑class musician, author, speaker, and “Minister of Groove.” Zoro shares how a humble janitor job unlocked his destiny, why he believes gifts come from God as seeds that must be cultivated, and how a life of service, not self, leads to real joy. He also opens up about his memoir “Maria’s Scarf,” his faith journey, encounters with major celebrities like Denzel Washington and Lenny Kravitz, and the spiritual principles that have guided his life through hardship, rejection, and eventual breakthrough. If you’ve ever felt behind, overlooked, or discouraged about your calling, this episode will challenge and inspire you to keep going. Timed highlights [0:01:34] Zoro joins: life in Tennessee, weather, and growing up doing hard manual labor [0:02:27] Early jobs:…

Johnny and Jim talk candidly about the state of radio today, the toll of bad management, and how podcasting has become a lifeline after nearly 50 years on the air. They share raw stories about being let go over Zoom, losing close friends and mentors like Phil Valentine and Dave White, and trying to find purpose again in a fractured media landscape. Guest appearance by longtime radio pro John David Wells, who breaks down what every radio company must give its talent to survive: money, opportunity, training, and respect. From Jesse Jackson on Radio Row to meeting your heroes (and being disappointed), to why personality is still radio’s last great hope, this episode is a love letter, a warning, and a blueprint for what comes next. Timed highlights (for show notes / description) 1:25 – Welcome back to Circling The Drain and where’s Jay Harper? 2:10 – Losing Phil Valentine, Dave White, and nearly 50 years in radio 3:24 – Radio as an abusive ex-wife you still miss 4:29 – Ratings wins, zero attaboys, and keeping…

In this episode of Circling The Drain, we sit down with traditional country artist and former radio host Scott Southworth for a funny, heartfelt, and surprisingly deep conversation. Scott shares how “bad breaks” in life often led to his biggest blessings, from accidentally landing a radio show on WLAC to stumbling into a thriving traditional country career with fans across Europe. He talks about walking away from chasing radio hits, leaning into hillbilly-with-wit songwriting, and why he refuses to turn his shows into political sermons. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes radio stories, Merle Haggard concert etiquette, meeting legends like Dolly Parton, Aaron Neville, and John Prine, and how Scott discovered a forgotten live recording that became his new live album, “Scott Southworth and the Honky Tonk Anonymous Band.” If you love real-deal country, inside-radio war stories, and conversations about resilience, faith, and staying audience-focused as an artist, this episode is for you. 01:39 Serial killer names,…

What do The Beatles, Cyndi Lauper, Joan Jett, The Monkees, Queen, Bo Diddley, Jason Aldean, and a random fan named Dave in a backstage doorway all have in common? Sandy Gennaro. In this episode of Circling the Drain, John and Jim sit down with veteran rock drummer Sandy Gennaro, a man whose career has taken him from watching The Beatles on TV as a kid to playing arenas around the world and speaking to Fortune 500 companies about leadership, gratitude, and beating the odds. Sandy shares: - How seeing The Beatles on Ed Sullivan at age 11 made him decide his life’s path, and why he literally taped a photo of a drummer to his bathroom mirror and told himself, “That’s going to be you.” - Stories from his early band Blackjack with a pre–solo career Michael Bolton and guitarist Bruce Kulick (KISS, Billy Squier, Meat Loaf, Grand Funk). - Touring and recording stories with Cyndi Lauper, Joan Jett, The Monkees, Bo Diddley, and a 3‑month European tour opening for Queen. - His powerful Dave in the Doorway story, a…

Longtime Nashville programmer Ron Allen (96.3 Jack FM, Y’all Country) joins Circling The Drain to talk about 20 years of Jack FM, the changing face of radio, and how local personalities still matter in a streaming and AI-driven world. Ron walks through his journey from Tulsa and Wichita to Nashville, the heyday of big-budget radio, and what has been lost as companies cut costs, shrink staffs, and push more national and digital initiatives. He explains why training grounds for new talent have disappeared, why making a living in radio is harder than ever, and why he still believes there is a long life left for terrestrial radio if it leans into its strengths. You will hear candid insights on Jack FM, Y’all, iHeart, HD Radio, Big D & Bubba, WSM, KDF, and the battle for country listeners in Nashville, plus stories about Phil Valentine, building the Moose brand, and keeping stations “local” even without a full live staff. Timed Highlights 1:44 Ron Allen introduced and his Jack FM background 2:31 Jack FM hits 20…

From Civil War battlefields to the legendary Hank Williams house on Franklin Road, this episode of Circling The Drain dives deep into hauntings, strange coincidences, and emotional encounters with the other side. Johnny B, Jay Harper, and Jim McCarthy swap eerie and heartfelt stories, including: – Ghostly music in Phil Valentine’s old cabin – Cold rooms and strange phenomena in Hank and Audrey Williams’ home – A child’s disembodied “Mom” in the middle of the night – A ghost cat that still roams a family home – A terrifying choking encounter in a haunted Arizona hotel – Dreams, premonitions, and final goodbyes from parents, friends, and radio legends They also touch on ley lines, New Orleans voodoo, Civil War and Revolutionary War history, and why Middle Tennessee may be one of the most spiritually active regions in America. If you’ve ever wondered whether loved ones can reach out after they’re gone, or why certain places just feel heavy, this episode is for you. 02:25 TV news stories, anchors with no pants,…

Radio veteran and voiceover pro Bennie Shipley joins Johnny B, Jay and Jim for a deep dive into the golden age of radio, the rise of country music superstars, and the evolving world of voiceover in the age of AI. Starting as a 15-year-old kid at WLCK in Scottsville, Kentucky, Benny went on to WCDS, became a hometown celebrity in high school, and eventually made the massive leap to powerhouse Nashville station WSM. Along the way he worked alongside legends like Harold Hensley, Ralph Emery, Marty Robbins, Lefty Frizzell, Alabama, Reba McEntire, and many more. Bennie shares hilarious and heartfelt behind-the-scenes stories: stars tossing pebbles at the studio window to get on the air, Marty Robbins prank-calling the station, early days of Alabama before their first hits, and the creative chaos of producing a full “Country Christmas Carol” with country stars on reel-to-reel tape. He also opens up about building a successful national voiceover career, losing part of his vocal range, rebuilding it with help from…

From coked-up sales reps in limos to Dolly Parton impostors and “attributes” pressed against the studio glass, this episode dives deep into the wild world of radio sales and promotions. Johnny B, Jay Harper, and James Patrick McCarthy trade war stories from small-market radio, over-the-top salespeople, unforgettable clients, and the local commercial legends who became stars in their own right. Timed Highlights 0:00 Cold open: “She had sales skills… and a certain attribute” 0:31 Welcome to Circling the Drain 2:00 Herb Tarlek, WKRP, and the classic radio salesperson stereotype 3:45 First time seeing coke in a limo (and it wasn’t Coca-Cola) 4:50 Small-market radio: doing on-air plus sales 5:45 Marriages, selling yourself, and buyer’s remorse 6:50 The Bronx closer: high-pressure but top-producing sales rep 7:55 Mary Garland, bug costumes, and the giant cockroach on the desk 10:16 Linda Biggers and “attributes” on the studio glass (1983 flashback) 13:25 Could that even happen today? Reverse harassment and…

In this episode of Circling The Drain, Johnny B, Jay Harper, and Jim McCarthy dive deep into the evolution of media: from old-school radio and movie theaters to long-form podcasts and YouTube creators. They talk Joe Rogan’s three-hour conversations, why podcasts feel more authentic than corporate radio, the rise of independent creators, and how celebrities have lost their monopoly on “cool.” Along the way, they share classic Nashville industry stories, memorable movie-theater moments, and real talk about niches, sponsors, and the future of podcasting. If you love behind-the-scenes media talk, Music City lore, and smart banter about where content is headed, this one’s for you. Timed highlights (chapters) 00:00 – Why long-form podcasts work and the Joe Rogan effect 01:00 – Welcome to Circling The Drain and hitting 1,000 Facebook followers 02:15 – Live event plans, swag, and possible dancing “girls” 03:10 – Why podcasts feel more real than corporate radio 05:35 – Borrowing the casual Joe Rogan-style intro for…

Fresh off a nasty Nashville ice storm, Johnny B, Jay, and Jim unpack winter chaos, government blame, and why people still run to live talk radio when things get dangerous. From Phil Valentine tornado stories and Sheryl Crow calling out NES, to THC cookie misadventures, potholes, the Cherokee Nation fixing roads, and the slow death of music radio, this one is equal parts war story and radio therapy. Highlights: – Ice storms, tornadoes, and staying on the air when everyone else is stuck – Sheryl Crow vs NES, cloud-seeding conspiracies, and Trump as scapegoat – TDOT, busted axles, and how a tribe fixed what a city wouldn’t – THC cookies, on-air paranoia, and learning your limits – Being undervalued by management and realizing your leverage in radio – Why talk radio may be the last moat left in broadcasting Follow Johnny B: https://www.facebook.com/john.e.bozeman Follow Jay Harper: https://www.facebook.com/harperjeff Follow Jim: www.jmvos.com Circling The Drain is produced by It's Your Show dot Co…

What happens when your life flips upside down at 50? Former Oak Ridge Boys insider and Nashville industry pro Brenda Golden joins Circling the Drain to talk about starting over in her golden years. Brenda shares how a painful divorce, a cross-country move to Austin, and a complete career reboot led to her new book, “Now What?”. Along the way, she pulls back the curtain on life with William Lee Golden, working around Garth Brooks at his peak, the impact of Pam Lewis and Lib Hatcher (Elizabeth Travis), and how a little movie called “God’s Not Dead” became a turning point. If you’ve ever lost a job, a marriage, or a sense of who you are and thought, “Now what?”, this conversation is for you. Timed highlights: 1:10 Brenda’s book origin story and turning 50 in chaos 2:40 Moving from Nashville to Austin and finding an arts-first city 3:55 South by Southwest and representing artists at the festival 5:10 Brenda’s early music-business days and Nashville connections 6:40 How she met William Lee Golden and joined the…

Legendary keyboardist, writer, and producer Bill Cuomo joins Circling The Drain to share six decades of music-industry stories. From crafting the iconic intros to “Bette Davis Eyes” and “Oh Sherrie” to working with Alabama, Trace Adkins, Herb Alpert, Barbra Streisand, Little River Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd**, and more, Bill walks through the evolution of recording from analog to digital, lawsuits with major brands, and why he prefers the studio over the road. He also opens up about surviving Catholic school, building a dome house in the forest, moving from LA to Nashville, and what AI means for today’s musicians. Candid, funny, and brutally honest. **Episode Highlights:** - 0:04:18 – Leaving LA and choosing Nashville - 0:06:31 – Building a 5,500 sq ft Arrington home and basement studio - 0:09:37 – Alabama, Trace Adkins, and “firing” himself from country - 0:15:43 – Becoming “the intro guy” and tape-era risks - 0:16:20 – Crafting the “Oh Sherrie” intro at home - 0:21:57 – Analog vs. digital and why he kept his…

Johnny B, Jay Harper, and Jim McCarthy dive into their most memorable celebrity encounters from decades in radio, records, and concert production. You’ll hear stories about: The gherm-iest radio promo guy in a stained satin jacket Delivering a giant get‑well card to Amy Grant in a dying station vehicle Glen Campbell shredding in an Opry dressing room and cracking jokes at the urinal A Steve Earle meeting that went from dream chat to guarded on‑air interview Hank Thompson’s rough day and sincere later apology Why Raul Malo and The Mavericks should have been massive Boarding Donald Trump’s private plane during the 2016 campaign Jerry Lee Lewis at the Stockyard, an impatient Kenny Rogers backstage, Trace Adkins calling in after a rant, plus memories of Jimmy Dean, Roy Clark, and more A funny, honest look at how fame collides with real human moods—and why backstage is usually the worst place to watch a show. Follow Johnny B: https://www.facebook.com/john.e.bozeman Follow Jay Harper:…

In this episode, country artist and hit songwriter Deborah Allen joins the Three J’s for a warm, funny, and deeply personal conversation. Deborah shares: The story and long tail of her signature hit “Baby I Lied” Early days at Opryland, touring Russia with Tennessee Ernie Ford, and how Shel Silverstein nudged her into songwriting Growing up in Memphis around the sounds of Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, Willie Mitchell, Al Green, and the Hodges brothers How she wound up sleeping on Elvis’ tour bus and later cutting pioneering overdub duets with Jim Reeves as “The Mystery Girl” Getting a brand-new song from Prince after a brief meeting at Sunset Sound A major health scare, surgery at Vanderbilt with Dr. James Netterville, and why she says “the devil’s not stealing my smile” Celebrating her mom’s 100th birthday, her mom’s younger boyfriend Ed, and the belief that every person you meet is a gift Highlights & Timestamps 0:40 – Introduction to Deborah & “Baby I Lied” on country, pop, and AC radio 7:35 – Opryland,…

Legendary Nashville broadcaster Shannon McCombs joins Johnny B, Jay Harper, and Jim McCarthy for a fast-moving tour through rock and country radio history. From being yelled at by Sebastian Bach and an enraged artist at XM, to co-hosting a Buddy Holly birthday bash at the request of Paul McCartney, Shannon shares candid, funny, and sometimes cringeworthy stories from decades behind the mic. She talks about breaking into a male‑dominated Nashville radio scene in the mid‑80s, surviving multiple format flips and firings, building country relationships through XM and Fan Fair/CMA Fest, producing Kix Brooks’ countdown, and why radio people share the same bizarre “dead air” nightmares. Along the way you’ll hear about Travis Tritt’s oversharing, Lee Greenwood’s Speedo moment, cat rescues, and why Shannon never chased the artist/songwriter dream in Music City. Highlights 0:00:00 Skid Row backstage disaster and Sebastian Bach meltdown 0:01:30 Show open: Circling The Drain welcomes first female guest 0:03:00 Shannon’s…

In this deeply personal “Dads Episode,” the guys open up about the fathers who shaped their lives, careers, and love of music. From small-town country radio and booking legends like Roy Clark, to petrochemical plants, phone lines, and woodworking in retirement, each story reveals how complicated, flawed, and unforgettable dads can be. The guys trace how certain songs became emotional landmarks—Merle Haggard concerts, Elton John story songs, and country classics about fathers and sons. They share how grief hit them when their dads passed, how music and video tributes helped them heal, and how late-in-life “I’m proud of you” moments still echo years later. They also grapple with tougher truths: jealousy, absence, depression after loss, and generational discipline that would look very different today. Yet, through it all, there’s an undercurrent of gratitude for dads who showed love in their own ways—by working hard, building things, fixing cars, or just bringing their kids along for the ride. Closing out, they…

On this episode of Circling the Drain, Johnny B, Jay, and Jim dive deep into Gene Simmons’ push for the American Music Fairness Act and what it could mean for already-struggling terrestrial radio. They unpack who really benefits from new royalty schemes, why small “mom & pop” stations could be crushed, and how streaming and AI are rapidly reshaping the music business. From stories of old-school radio logging and payola-era politics to modern streaming, AI-generated hits, and DIY “instant artists,” the guys explore whether Gene is picking the wrong fight—and what the real endgame might be. Along the way, they hit on artist exploitation, fan loyalty, the death (and possible rebirth) of local radio, and why creatives must learn to **sell their own value**. - **[00:00:00]** Kicking off with Gene Simmons, Sheryl Crow, and the question: who should pay whom for radio airplay? - **[00:04:21]** Breaking down the **American Music Fairness Act** and the financial realities of radio paying both writers and artists. -…

Join the Circling the Drain crew as they dive into the heart of what's gone wrong with modern corporate radio. In this candid episode, Jay, John and Jim reflect on the loss of local flavor, the rise of consultants with little on-air experience, and how cookie-cutter strategies have changed the industry. Through vivid anecdotes—including infamous consultant run-ins, near-misses on Music Row, and heartfelt stories about legends like Ronnie Milsap and Charlie Pride—they explore what made radio great and what's being lost in today's era of homogenized programming. Enjoy behind-the-scenes tales, laughter, and honest debate about the future of radio, topped off by listener shout-outs and real talk about what it takes to keep a radio show authentic. Timed Highlights: - [0:00:00] The problem with corporate radio: Inexperienced program directors and consultants. - [0:01:35] Appreciating "superfan" Larry Alderman and audience engagement. - [0:02:59] Stories about consultants blocking hit songs and late adoption on…

Johnny B, Jay Harper, and Jim McCarthy dive deep into the controversial world of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, dissecting its questionable inductee choices and glaring omissions. [0:00-0:10] Intro: Critique of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's misleading title [0:10-0:20] Discussion of unexpected inductees like Whitney Houston [0:20-0:35] Drummer's perspective on the Hall's exhibit setup [0:35-0:50] List of notable rock artists missing from the Hall of Fame [0:50-1:05] Comparison with Country Music Hall of Fame [1:05-1:20] Radio industry changes and loss of local music identity [1:20-1:35] Detailed breakdown of Hall of Fame induction process [1:35-1:50] Personal stories about music legends and rock history [1:50-2:00] Closing thoughts on the need for a more authentic rock museum Follow Johnny B: https://www.facebook.com/john.e.bozeman Follow Jay Harper: https://www.facebook.com/harperjeff Follow Jim: www.jmvos.com Circling The Drain is produced by It's Your Show dot Co www.itsyourshow.co

Join the Circling the Drain crew for a festive Thanksgiving episode filled with laughs, nostalgia, and plenty of holiday spirit. From debating the best (and worst) Christmas movies and songs, to trading stories about working long shifts during the holidays, the hosts open up about meaningful traditions, family memories, and radio life’s quirks. Listen in for reflections on "It's a Wonderful Life," holiday music pet peeves, behind-the-scenes radio tales, and some lively debates about whether "Die Hard" is truly a Christmas movie. Whether you love classic holiday films or quirky Christmas songs, this episode brings warmth and wit to your holiday season. Highlights: - [00:00:00] Reflecting on "It's a Wonderful Life" and personal connections to the film - [00:02:51] Holiday music gripes: Elvis, Porky Pig, and radio playlist woes - [00:04:09] Stories from working Christmas and New Year's shifts in radio - [00:07:26] Country radio tales and "smoking with Willie" stories - [00:10:00] The Christmas Song Countdown:…

Johnny B, Jay and Jim welcome radio veteran Matt Murphy for an unforgettable conversation spanning his upbringing in Georgia, the twists and turns of his eclectic radio career, and the hard-won philosophies that animate his celebrated talk shows. Matt recounts personal battles, including family struggles, memorable firings, and the deeply moving "Liberty Bell" segment that reveals radio’s power to change lives. The team explores the joys, challenges, and responsibilities of modern radio, with plenty of behind-the-scenes laughs and heartfelt moments along the way. Timed Highlights: - [00:00:00] Matt Murphy’s introduction and the heartwarming story of "Liberty Bell" - [00:03:14] Growing up in Thompson, Georgia: Family challenges and radio dreams - [00:06:10] First steps into radio: Following in his father’s unpredictable footsteps - [00:09:03] From college theater to talk radio: Early lessons and live mishaps - [00:14:25] Firing stories and resilience: Lessons from early radio stations - [00:18:13] Building a…

Join us for an intimate conversation with Regie Hamm, a songwriter whose life took unexpected turns through music, adoption, and personal transformation. Highlights include: [0:00-0:15] Introduction and podcast setup [0:15-0:30] Background on Regie's musical journey [0:36-0:45] Early days in a family musical group [0:45-1:00] Transition from family band to solo artist [1:00-1:15] Adoption of daughter Isabella and life-changing experiences [1:15-1:30] American Idol songwriting competition victory [1:30-1:45] "The Time of My Life" song becoming an Olympic anthem [1:45-2:00] Reflections on creativity, family, and personal growth Regie shares candid stories about his musical roots, unexpected success, adopting a daughter with special needs, and how life's challenges transformed his perspective. A must-listen for music lovers and those seeking inspiration through personal storytelling. Follow Johnny B: https://www.facebook.com/john.e.bozeman Follow Jay Harper: https://www.facebook.com/harperjeff Follow Jim:…

Country music singer Wade Hayes joins Circling the Drain for an intimate conversation about his remarkable journey through life's challenges. From battling stage four colon cancer to navigating the music industry, Wade shares his inspiring story of survival, his Oklahoma roots, and his passion for authentic country music. Hear about his early days playing in honky tonks, his breakthrough hits like "Old Enough to Know Better", and his upcoming reimagined greatest hits album. Wade opens up about his musical influences, his near-death experience, and the gratitude that keeps him grounded in the ever-changing world of country music. [0:00:00] - Wade discusses his miraculous cancer survival, noting he was given only a 5% chance of survival [0:05:57] - Wade shares his move to Nashville at 22 with just $450, determined to pursue music [0:08:02] - Pivotal moment: Ricky Skaggs' CMA Awards speech inspires Wade to pursue his music career [0:09:38] - Wade describes how record labels discovered him while playing lead…

Join the Triple J's as they dive into the wild world of radio broadcasting, sharing hilarious and cringe-worthy stories of on-air explosions, technical disasters, and workplace tensions. This episode reveals the chaotic backstage drama that listeners never hear. [0:00-0:10] Intro to radio confrontation stories [0:10-0:15] Johnny B's first hint at announcer conflicts [0:20-0:30] Michael Jackson death reporting incident [8:20-8:54] Jay's embarrassing engineering confrontation [11:00-13:15] Johnny's on-air outburst with another personality [15:00-16:30] Discussion of Super Talk TV technical failures [33:00-36:18] Production department technology frustrations [41:36-43:59] Wild story about David Allen Coe's unpredictable concert behavior Follow Johnny B: https://www.facebook.com/john.e.bozeman Follow Jay Harper: https://www.facebook.com/harperjeff Follow Jim: www.jmvos.com Circling The Drain is produced by It's Your Show dot Co www.itsyourshow.co

Join the Three J's as they dive deep into the music industry's hidden stories, exploring talented artists who were on the brink of stardom but never quite broke through. Timed Highlights: [0:05] - Introduction to the podcast and hosts [0:15] - Discussion of MCA Records' unique artists like Steve Earle and Lyle Lovett [0:25] - The challenges of country radio in the 1980s [0:35] - Personal stories of artists who should have been bigger [0:45] - Behind-the-scenes insights into music industry politics [0:55] - Memorable encounters with musicians in Nashville [1:05] - The importance of timing and finding the right song in an artist's career [1:15] - Exploring the magic of Nashville's music scene Get an insider's look at the Nashville music scene and the complex world of record labels, radio promotion, and the elusive "it factor" that separates good artists from superstars. Follow Johnny B: https://www.facebook.com/john.e.bozeman Follow Jay Harper: https://www.facebook.com/harperjeff Follow Jim: www.jmvos.com…

Following the news that Rush will be hitting the road again with drummer Anika Nilles, we dive deep into the world of band member changes, exploring the delicate balance between musical evolution and fan loyalty. From Rush's upcoming tour to Van Halen's iconic lineup shifts, we'll break down: [0:01:46] - The legal battles of bands replacing original members [0:07:10] - Van Halen's transformation with Sammy Hagar [0:22:14] - The crucial role of loyalty in music, especially in country genres [0:38:53] - Ringo Starr's All-Star Band and maintaining musical magic [0:41:29] - Bands like Toto and their ever-changing lineups We'll explore how bands navigate member changes, the impact on their sound, and whether a band can truly remain the same when key players depart. Packed with rock and roll stories, musician insights, and passionate debate! Follow Johnny B: https://www.facebook.com/john.e.bozeman Follow Jay Harper: https://www.facebook.com/harperjeff Follow Jim: www.jmvos.com Circling The Drain is produced by…

Join Johnny B & Jay Harper as they dive into a hilarious and cringe-worthy exploration of their most embarrassing celebrity encounters. From awkward backstage moments with Roy Clark and Waylon Jennings to on-air radio mishaps and fan-boy interactions, this episode is packed with laugh-out-loud stories that reveal the human side of entertainment personalities. Learn about unexpected meet-and-greets, on-stage wardrobe malfunctions, and the art of not embarrassing yourself when meeting your heroes. It's a candid, entertaining look behind the scenes of the music and radio world that you won't want to miss! Follow Johnny B: https://www.facebook.com/john.e.bozeman Follow Jay Harper: https://www.facebook.com/harperjeff Follow Jim: www.jmvos.com Circling The Drain is produced by It's Your Show dot Co www.itsyourshow.co

Join us for an intimate conversation with legendary songwriter Gary Gentry as he shares incredible stories from Nashville's golden era. From his supernatural encounter with Hank Williams' ghost to writing hit songs like "The Ride" and working with icons like Billy Sherrill and David Allen Coe, this episode is a treasure trove of music history. Timed Highlights: [0:09:45] - The supernatural moment that inspired "The Ride" [0:34:28] - Wild stories about Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings [0:52:18] - Behind-the-scenes of writing "Bluegrass Morning" [1:00:35] - Gary's thoughts on current country music artists [1:04:26] - Discussion on how modern country music lacks distinctive artist styles [1:06:24] - Potential collaboration idea: Beyoncé covering "The Ride" A must-listen for country music fans, aspiring songwriters, and anyone who loves authentic behind-the-scenes music stories! Follow Johnny B: https://www.facebook.com/john.e.bozeman Follow Jay Harper: https://www.facebook.com/harperjeff Follow Jim:…

In this episode, the 3J crew dives deep into a wide-ranging conversation covering everything from music and movies to current events. Highlights include: [0:00-0:10] Personal stories and podcast reflections [0:10-0:25] Discussion of Charlie Kirk's recent assassination and its impact [0:25-0:40] Memories of talk radio and political discourse [0:40-1:00] Reminiscing about Robert Redford and classic Hollywood actors [1:00-1:20] Detailed breakdown of the movie Jaws, its production challenges, and iconic moments [1:20-1:40] Exploration of classic film noir and golden age Hollywood glamour [1:40-End] Conversations about interview shows like Dick Cavett and memorable celebrity interviews The podcast offers a mix of nostalgia, pop culture commentary, and personal anecdotes, keeping listeners entertained with the hosts' witty banter and diverse topics. Follow Johnny B: https://www.facebook.com/john.e.bozeman Follow Jay Harper: https://www.facebook.com/harperjeff Follow Jim: www.jmvos.com Circling The Drain is…

Johnny B, Jay and Jim dive deep into the world of story songs, exploring their rich history and cultural impact. In this episode, we'll unpack: [0:01:00] The Power of Narrative Music - Gordon Lightfoot's "Edmund Fitzgerald" - How story songs transcend musical genres [0:22:30] Legendary Storytellers in Music - Kenny Rogers' narrative hits - The emotional depth of songs like "Lucille" [0:33:40] Modern Challenges in Songwriting - The impact of AI on music creation - Rising concert prices limiting musical inspiration [0:41:20] Emotional Resonance of Story Songs - Personal stories that move listeners - Examples from Pearl Jam, Zach Brown, and more Highlights include candid discussions about music's evolution, the importance of imperfection in recordings, and a nostalgic look at how story songs connect generations. Whether you're a music historian or casual listener, this episode offers insights into the art of musical storytelling. Follow Johnny B: https://www.facebook.com/john.e.bozeman Follow Jay Harper:…