This week the No Simple Road Family welcomes the incredible Natalie Brooke — keyboard wizard, powerhouse vocalist, bandleader, and radiant force in the jam / funk / fusion universe! Natalie joins Aaron, Mel, and Apple to talk about her journey through music, creativity, self-discovery, and what it means to show up fully as yourself both on and off the stage. We get into the early sparks that ignited her musical fire, the teachers and bands that shaped her sound, and how she found her own voice as a performer in a scene that’s always evolving. Natalie opens up about the magic of improvisation, channeling energy through her keys, and the deep trust it takes to step out into the unknown every night in front of a live audience. But this conversation isn't just about music — it’s about growth, empowerment, and remembering why we create in the first place. Natalie shares how she stays grounded while touring, how collaboration fuels her spirit, and how she keeps music fun, playful, and deeply connected to joy. Together, we explore the community that forms around live music, how art becomes a language for the soul, and the ways in which sound can bring us home to ourselves. Head over to https: nataliebrookemusic.com for tour info and more and follow her on IG @noodlybrooke Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠nosimpleroad.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for merch, past episodes, and community updates. Support us on Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/nosimpleroad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leave a 5-star review & share this episode with a fellow music lover! -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Get ready, family — this week on No Simple Road, we’re hanging with the one and only Larry Keel, a bluegrass legend, master picker, and true steward of the jamgrass spirit! Aaron, Mel, and Apple welcome Larry into the circle for a real, heart-forward conversation that goes way beyond the usual talk of tours and records. We dive deep into the magic of community and connection that lives inside the music — from the Northwest String Summit memories and Larry’s long friendship with Yonder Mountain String Band, to the way shared stages become sacred spaces. Larry opens up about his incredible musical partnership with his wife, Jenny, and how their bond has shaped both their sound and their lives. The crew explores the evolution of bluegrass — how pioneers like Sam Bush and modern trailblazers like Billy Strings are expanding the boundaries of the genre while honoring its roots. Larry shares stories from the road and the river, including his experiences at Carnegie Hall, Japan, and his own music-meets-nature gathering, Bass and Grass. If you love bluegrass, jamgrass, or just the feeling of deep connection that music brings, this one’s for you. Head over to https: larrykeel.com for tour info and more and follow larry on IG @larrykeel Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠nosimpleroad.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ for merch, past episodes, and community updates. Support us on Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/nosimpleroad⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leave a 5-star review & share this episode with a fellow music lover! -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This week's rewind takes us into a discussion around how healing can show up at the oddest of times and our willingness to take the medicine we are served. This is old school NSR at its best... Aaron, Mel, and Apple working it out in real-time, with a little help from our NSR Family and The Tepid Line. -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

This week on No Simple Road, we sit down with Brad Zerman, founder of Seven Point Cannabis, to explore how cannabis, music, and culture intersect to create something bigger than business. Brad shares his journey of opening and running dispensaries across Illinois and beyond, and how his latest project in Danville, Illinois with Seven Point is redefining what a cannabis experience can be. Imagine an outdoor market, food trucks, nightly live music, and a smoke lounge — all designed to bring people together around community and creativity. With a background in navigating highly regulated industries, Brad has been at the forefront of cannabis compliance, security, and business operations. But at the heart of his vision is something deeper: building an ecosystem where cannabis is a catalyst for cultural connection, live events, and shared experiences. ✨ Topics We Cover: The inspiration and vision behind Seven Point Cannabis How dispensaries can become hubs for music, food, and community Balancing compliance with creativity in the cannabis industry The cultural value of cannabis and its role in connection Whether you’re curious about the future of cannabis culture, passionate about live music and local communities, or simply want a behind-the-scenes look at what’s happening beyond the dispensary doors, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on where cannabis and culture meet. Tune in now and discover how Seven Point Cannabis is creating more than a dispensary — it’s creating an experience. For schedule of events, menu, specials, and more head over to: sevenpoint.org Visit ⁠⁠⁠nosimpleroad.com⁠⁠⁠ for merch, past episodes, and community updates. Support us on Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/nosimpleroad⁠⁠⁠ Leave a 5-star review & share this episode with a fellow music lover! -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

This week on No Simple Road, we welcome guitarist and composer Ben Garnett to dive into the stories, sounds, and inspirations behind his brand-new album, Kites Keep. Ben takes us on a journey through the making of Kites Keep, exploring how his love of film and visual storytelling shapes his approach to composition and improvisation. We discuss the interplay between music and cinema, the way sound can evoke imagery and emotion, and how creativity bridges the gap between what we hear and what we see. From his roots as a guitarist to his evolution as a bold, imaginative composer, Ben shares insights into his process, the challenges of pushing musical boundaries, and the joy of creating work that resonates with both ears and eyes. Topics We Cover: The inspiration and process behind Kites Keep How film and visual art influence Ben’s music The crossover between storytelling, composition, and improvisation Building bridges between the jam world, jazz, and cinematic soundscapes Whether you’re a fan of jam bands, jazz, cinematic music, or the creative process itself, this episode offers a deep look into the artistry of a rising voice in today’s music world. Head over to ⁠www.bengarnett.net⁠ for show info and more and follow him on IG ⁠@kidgarnett Visit ⁠⁠nosimpleroad.com⁠⁠ for merch, past episodes, and community updates. Support us on Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/nosimpleroad⁠⁠ Leave a 5-star review & share this episode with a fellow music lover! -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This week's rewind has us in the studio (without Mel) with our special guests Kris and Chelsea Howland! Kris is the man at the helm of Heady Wax Fiends. We talk about the state of the union in the scene today, what Kris' origin story with collecting vinyl is, how Kris and Chelsea met on a bench at Dick's and a ton more! Come hang with us! Follow HWF on IG @heady_wax_fiends and on FB HERE Visit them online at www.headywaxfiends.com -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

On this episode of No Simple Road, we sit down with Trish Imbrogno, aka Trish Plays Bass! From her early days training in classical music to diving headfirst into bluegrass, Trish shares the story of how music has shaped her path. We talk about the shift from structured classical training to the freedom of improvisation, the energy of the bluegrass scene, and what it means to be part of a thriving community. Trish opens up about collaboration, creativity, and the magic of live music that connects us all. If you love jam bands, bluegrass, improvisation, the Grateful Dead, Phish, or live music culture, this conversation will strike a chord. Listen now and join us for an inspiring journey with Trish Plays Bass! Head over to www.trishplaysbass.com for show info and more and follow her on IG @trishplaysbass Visit ⁠nosimpleroad.com⁠ for merch, past episodes, and community updates. Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/nosimpleroad⁠ Leave a 5-star review & share this episode with a fellow music lover! -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This week's rewind has it all! We're talking about the upcoming Billy Strings shows here in Eugene this weekend which leads to a discussion around the genius surrounding the center of that particular whirlwind. Blending genres into something completely new is no small feat and were here for it! Then, our A.I chat buddy gave us a suggestion for a topic of conversation: Is the lot scene a microcosm of the wider world, is is total chaos, is it a representation of how things could be if we all work together? Listen in and see what we came up with! -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This week's rewind has all three of us back in the studio catching y'all up with Mel and Apple and diggin into some theories and thoughts on EMF smog, sunlight exposure, mitochondria, cold water therapy, small town people, overstimulation, and of course... Aaron's opinion of the recent GD60 shows in San Francisco. -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This week's rewind is a throwback to the very first episode of NSR. Aaron is here, solo, sharing what had been going on with him lately. Going through a re-examination of choices made, finding the strength to see the good, and reminders of how important community, friends, and family really are. It's all in here. Thanks for listening to us and for being here to support us. We love y'all. -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

This week on No Simple Road, we sit down with the phenomenal mandolin player, educator, and sonic explorer — Joe K. Walsh! From his early days with The Gibson Brothers to his mind-bending solo work and genre-blurring collaborations, to teaching at The Berklee College of Music, Joe has carved out a space as one of the most innovative voices on the mandolin today. We get into the heart of what it means to play with soul, why curiosity is the key to creativity, and how embracing imperfection leads to magic onstage and in life. Joe shares stories and insights from teaching at Berklee College of Music, and what it’s like pushing boundaries in the evolving world of acoustic music. Whether you're a bluegrass head, a jam band freak, or just someone who loves music that means something, this one’s for you. Tap in, tune up, and join the conversation as we explore sound, spirit, and the in-between with Joe K. Walsh. Follow Joe K. Walsh on Instagram @joe_k_Walsh and hit up his website https://www.joekwalsh.com Music featured in this episode includes the song 'Cold City' from Joe's recently released album "Trust and Love" Visit nosimpleroad.com for merch, past episodes, and community updates. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/nosimpleroad Leave a 5-star review & share this episode with a fellow music lover! -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Self-taught guitarist Bella Rayne shares her inspiring journey with us, beginning from the serendipitous discovery of an old guitar in her Northern California garage during 2020. Bella's passion for 90s alternative and grunge music sparked a creative awakening that has since led her to The Grateful Dead and to performing with some of her heroes. Her story showcases not just her musical prowess but also her artistic inclinations in visual arts and film photography, with aspirations to create music videos on the horizon. We talk a bit about Bella's experiences navigating the Grateful Dead community and the jam band scene as a young female musician. She shares the thrill of playing with iconic instruments like Jerry Garcia's 'Tiger' and playing alongside notable musicians like Melvin Seals and John Kadlecik, and the unique support system her family provides along her journey. Bella candidly discusses the challenges she faces in a traditionally male-dominated space and her aspirations for writing original music. Her story highlights the power of music as a unifying force that transcends generational and stylistic boundaries, breathing new life into the legacy of bands like the Grateful Dead, Talking Heads, and Allman Brothers. This episode paints a colorful picture of Bella's journey from a creatively inclined homeschooler to a rising star in the music scene. We touch upon her early interests in soccer, theater, and visual arts, as well as her unexpected venture into singing and how it broadened her musical repertoire. Bella's tale is a testament to the excitement of new interpretations in music, and the inspiring role young artists play in offering fresh perspectives on classic tunes. Head to ⁠bella-rayne.com⁠ for tour info and more and follow her on IG ⁠@bella_rayne⁠ -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

We are joined by two-thirds of the dynamic force behind the art rock band Mind at Large this week... Eli Mathews and Alex Donahue! Eli jumps right in to share the exciting news of his engagement and the harmonious chaos of his life outside the spotlight. From the heartwarming proposal story to the everyday joys of dog sitting and culinary escapades, Eli gives us a glimpse into his world, all while balancing the rich flavors of life and music. Our conversation takes on a new rhythm with Alex Donahue joining the discussion, bringing insights into his life as a father and a self-taught luthier. Alex reflects on the hero’s journey, emphasizing that perseverance shapes both personal and creative growth. We explore how the arrival of his child, Emerson, and the addition of his younger brother Andrew on drums have transformed Mind at Large, introducing a fresh beat that has revitalized their musical journey. This chapter of life is a testament to the evolution of both band and family, blending the excitement of parenthood with creative breakthroughs. Our conversation broadens to embrace the vibrant world of jam bands and the evolving music landscape shaped by platforms like YouTube. We explore the thrill of discovering new sounds, celebrating collective achievements, and embracing the imperfect beauty of music. From the inspiration found in simple, authentic sounds to the future of their band’s journey, every note resonates with growth and connection. Check out the new album 'Begin Aain' streaming everywhere and follow Mind At Large on IG @mindatlargemusic Head to mindatlargeband.net for tour info, news, and more! -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Ever wondered how music festivals can spark deeper human connections? Get ready to explore the transformative power of the Ramble Festival, as we chat with founder Brick Lohr and collaborator in this year's Ramble, Kris Howland of Heady Wax Fiends. Discover the innovative partnerships shaping the festival scene, like the vinyl submission contest by Heady Wax Fiends. It is collaboration between individuals like Kris and Brick, who are enhancing the festival experience by merging music with vinyl culture. This artistic initiative not only offers artists the chance to join the Ramble festival lineup but also supports them in producing their next album on vinyl. It's an inspiring example of how connections and creative ideas can elevate the festival experience and provide musicians with unique opportunities beyond the stage. We talk a bit about the balance between passion and career as we highlight the joys of pursuing what you love through passion projects like podcasts and festivals. We emphasize the importance of authenticity and staying true to one's passions, even when they aren't the main source of income. As we gear up for the Ramble Festival, featuring acts like Chris Jacobs and The California Honey Drops, we celebrate the bonds formed through shared musical interests. The episode underscores our gratitude for community spaces that allow us to connect, recharge, and carry the festival spirit into everyday life, enriching the world with unity and joy. Head over to www.ramblefestival.com for tickets and info and on IG @ramblefestival and check out www.headywaxfiends.com for the coolest vinyl collecting club around and follow on IG @heady_wax_fiends -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠⁠⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠⁠⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This is a tough one this week for us here at No Simple Road. We are coming in raw, unfiltered, and in the moment on this episode. We're getting ready to lose a member of the NSR Family/Household and, true to our form, we are here with all of you going through it. If you've been a listener of the show for a while now you know that we don't hold stuff back when we're going through it personally. We jump in and talk about it here on the show as a form of therapy and as a way to let all of you know that we go through tough stuff sometimes too. This week is one of those episodes where we really just couldn't do much more than let it out. Thanks for listening to us and for being here to support us. We love y'all. -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠⁠⁠⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

We are extremely excited to have Mason Via join us for this week's episode of No Simple Road! Mason opens up about the highs and lows of touring life, balancing the demands of performance with personal health, and finding harmony between the expectations of a musician's life and the realities of constant travel. Our conversation meanders through Mason's experiences growing up in a festival community, where he honed his craft at fiddlers conventions, finding the soul of music in lively campgrounds rather than grand stages. We discuss the delicate balance between achieving fame and maintaining genuine fan connections, inspired by artists like Billy Strings who masterfully blend mainstream appeal with grassroots intimacy. Mason reflects on the resurgence of bluegrass music and the crucial role of community in both its education and practice, where collaboration and rhythm create a powerful, transcendent experience. We also touch on the instructional side of bluegrass, with a nod to influential educators like Jim Panky and Marcel Ardans, who champion the communal and instructional spirit of this enduring genre. Finally, Mason sheds light on his personal life, celebrating his recent marriage and aspirations of settling back in Nashville, proving that the journey of a musician is as much about personal growth as it is about performance. Head over to masonvia.com for tour info, music and more and follow Mason on IG @mason_via -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This week on the Rewind we are in the studio, stuffy noses, coughs, and all talking about the emergence of A.I. Is it connected to a universal field of consciousness, can it be tapping into something that we humans cannot? Are we on the brink of a shift in everything we have ever known? Also, can we really, "Do the research."? In a world of infinite opinions and findings, can we really know for sure about anything anymore? Join us for this lighthearted conversation. -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This week on the Rewind we are finally recapping the whirlwind Spring Phish PNW run!! Better late than never, as they say. Join us for an in depth chat about our experience seeing Phish in our own dojo for the first time! From tight security at Climate Pledge Arena, a wizard on the train, Jedi mind tricks, to a hometown throw down at the Moda Center here in Portland, this was one hell of a run for the No Simple Road crew! -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠Young & Sick⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

We are so excited to have Crystal Lariza of Never Come Down wtih us on No Simple Road this week. This episode spotlights the vibrant experiences of Never Come Down, a band that has carved its path across borders and bluegrass festivals, becoming musical ambassadors on a global stage. Excitement and exploration define our conversations with Crystal, as she shares insights into their transformative performances across Europe and beyond, including their pioneering impact as the first bluegrass band to grace the stage in Bosnia. The band's dedication to music education and cultural exchange shines brightly, emphasizing the universal language of music that bridges cultural divides. Through stories of cowboy hats, jam circles, and collaborations, we uncover the rich tapestry of influences that shape their unique sound and creative process. This episode isn't just about music; it's about the human connections formed through shared passions and the unpredictable paths life offers. From the intimate tales of life's lessons in the Methow Valley to the shared moments of camaraderie on tour, we explore themes of authenticity, community, and the beauty of the present moment. As we reflect on these stories, we're reminded of the wisdom in embracing the unexpected and cherishing the journey, with gratitude and a smile. Head over to www.nevercomedownband.com for tour info and more and follow them on IG @nevercomedownband -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠Young & Sick⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

We are so excited to have the one and only Bob Bralove as our guest on No Simple Road this week! Reminiscing about the magnetic pull of legendary live performances, we reflect on the timeless impact of icons like Stevie Wonder, the Grateful Dead, and The Beatles. The past's vibrant music scene, where creative titans like John Cage and Salvador Dali mingled, serves as a backdrop for our discussion on the evolution of musical exploration. From the analog magic of pre-digital discoveries to the digital era's effortless access, this episode offers a nostalgic yet forward-looking perspective on how the journey of discovering music has transformed but continues to shape personal and collective experiences. Music, an eternal uniter, transcends the imaginary divisions of the world—this truth resonates throughout our conversation. As we navigate the delicate dance of personal expression and collaborative creation, the evocative power of music emerges as a comforting force. Taking all of Bob's influences and creating the new album 'Acoustic Conversations' has been a journey. We get to hear all about the creation of improvised sounds with violinist Patti Weiss and how this new album was born. Head over to www.bobbralove.com to check out the album and find out all the info! -FREE SHIPPING from Shop Tour Bus Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from The Grateful Mountain with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - Young & Sick MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CHILLDREN OF INDIGO No Simple Road is part of OSIRIS MEDIA. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music