The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.
Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.
Plug in and hang out.
The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.
Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.
Plug in and hang out.
Joel Hoekstra has played with everyone from Whitesnake and Night Ranger to Cher and Trans-Siberian Orchestra—and he’s here to tell the stories behind it all. In this episode of The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols, Joel breaks down his incredible career path, from Broadway pits in New York to arena stages across the globe. Joel also shares his secrets for longevity, versatility, and surviving the hustle of a professional guitar life. Expect inspiring lessons, guitar nerdery, and some unforgettable stories from one of rock’s most versatile players.
Pre-save Joel's new single, "The Fall"
His new album, 'Into the Fade' drops February 2026.
TIMESTAMPS
0:00 – Why Joel is the ultimate guitar chameleon
1:17 – Playing with Whitesnake, TSO, and Night Ranger
2:56 – Early guitar influences and discovering Angus Young
4:18 – Learning guitar in a pre-tab world
6:03 – Growing up blue-collar and developing work ethic
8:09 – Building a career as a sideman
10:02 – Breaking into the New York scene
11:18 – How Joel joined Night Ranger
13:05 – Broadway gigs and Rock of Ages
15:44 – Joining Trans-Siberian Orchestra
17:10 – The genius of Paul O’Neill
19:05 – Balancing gigs and finding your lane
20:00 – Inspiring kids through live performance
21:01 – Fear, stress, and motivation
22:03 – Playing with Cher & embracing new styles
24:16 – Lessons from playing with Foreigner
27:10 – The Night Ranger guitar team
29:57 – From Broadway to arenas
33:00 – Landing the Whitesnake gig
36:00 – Finding purpose and artistic balance
37:01 – Advice for young players
38:05 – Full-circle moments and staying open-minded
40:24 – Handling pressure and last-minute gigs
45:04 – Managing anxiety and performance stress
47:08 – Collaborating with legends like Satriani and Schenker
49:19 – Thoughts on online trolls and staying positive
51:01 – Joel’s tapping and legato fundamentals
57:24 – The art of phrasing and “money notes”
1:01:34 – Joel’s new album From the Fade
1:03:06 – Closing thoughts & gratitude
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/no-cover-charge-podcast/id1837018751
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The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.