HarmonyTALK

Just moments after closing Opening Night of the 2026 Harmony in the Woods concert season, Meghan Parnell and Dave Barnes of Bywater Call returned to the stage, not for an encore, but for a honest conversation with HarmonyTALK host Greg Frigoletto.The result is an interview that feels every bit as genuine as the band's music.Over the past several years, the Toronto-based, seven-piece band has quietly become one of the most exciting live acts on the international roots music scene. Blending Southern soul, blues, roots rock, and powerful horn arrangements, Bywater Call delivers performances that are both emotionally charged and musically fearless. At the center is Meghan Parnell's commanding voice, complemented by Dave Barnes' expressive guitar work and the remarkable chemistry of a band that has spent years earning every fan one performance at a time.Their music refuses to be confined to a single genre.Influenced by artists including The Band, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Otis Redding, Little Feat, Sly and the Family Stone, and The Wood Brothers, Bywater Call moves effortlessly from deeply personal ballads to high-energy anthems that showcase the full strength of the seven-piece ensemble. Every song reflects the highs and lows of life, exploring love, loss, resilience, hope, and everything in between.That authenticity has earned the band growing international recognition. Following extensive touring throughout Europe, Bywater Call was nominated for the 2025 UK Blues Award for International Blues Artist of the Year. This year, the band once again landed among the Top 20 finalists alongside many of the biggest names in contemporary blues.In this episode, Meghan and Dave reflect on how the band found its sound, what keeps seven musicians connected through thousands of miles on the road, and why live performance continues to shape everything they create.Recorded immediately after their Harmony in the Woods performance, this conversation captures something listeners rarely hear: artists reflecting on a show while the music is still echoing in the air.If this conversation inspires you to experience live music under the trees, the Harmony in the Woods summer concert season continues through Sept. 5 with an outstanding lineup of nationally touring artists spanning blues, Americana, folk, jazz, bluegrass, Celtic, world music, and more. Visit HarmonyInTheWoods.org for the complete schedule and tickets.

From Rural Pennsylvania to the World's Greatest Opera HousesFor most kids who grow up in a small rural town, the world's great opera houses can feel unimaginably far away.For Melanie Henley Heyn, they became home.In this episode of HarmonyTALK, host Lisa Champeau sits down with the internationally acclaimed opera singer whose journey began at age ten in a production of Amahl and the Night Visitors and eventually carried her from Wayne County in Northeastern Pennsylvania to stages across Europe and beyond.Fresh off a performance at The Cooperage Project in Honesdale, Melanie reflects on the winding path from small-town dreamer to professional artist, the discipline required to pursue a career in opera, and why she believes great art has the power to bring people together rather than drive them apart.The conversation explores the realities of pursuing one of the world's most demanding art forms, overcoming self-doubt, and learning to trust your own voice.Melanie also shares her belief that artists have a responsibility to help people see beyond labels and assumptions, finding connection through stories that reveal both the beauty and complexity of human nature.Filled with warmth, humor, honesty, and inspiration, this episode offers an intimate look at a remarkable artistic journey that began in rural Pennsylvania and continues to unfold on stages around the world.

What Happens When a Reporter Stops Looking Away?For most people, curiosity lasts a few moments.For Matt Birkbeck, it became a life's work.Long before true crime podcasts dominated streaming platforms and documentary series filled television schedules, Birkbeck was chasing leads, knocking on doors, digging through court records, and asking questions others overlooked.His reporting led him deep into stories involving organized crime, political corruption, missing persons, financial fraud, and some of the most notorious figures in modern American history.In this episode of HarmonyTALK, host Greg Frigoletto sits down with the award-winning investigative journalist and bestselling author whose work helped uncover the stories behind Mafia kingpin Russell Bufalino, mob boss William "Big Billy" D'Elia, Robert Durst, and Suzanne Sevakis, whose tragic story later became the global Netflix documentary Girl in the Picture.The conversation explores what motivates someone to spend a lifetime pursuing difficult truths, the emotional toll of living inside dark stories, and the patience required to earn trust from people who often have every reason not to talk.Birkbeck also discusses his latest creative chapter, The Wicked, a historical thriller inspired by the Molly Maguires and the coal region of Northeastern Pennsylvania. After decades devoted exclusively to facts, documents, and evidence, he explains why fiction offered a different kind of freedom while still satisfying his instinct to investigate.From New York City and Hollywood, to the Poconos and Pittston, PA, and beyond,  Birkbeck's career has been driven by one simple question:What story has not been told yet?

When Music Becomes Common Ground: Harvey Price and the Peace Drums ProjectWhat if the path to peace started with children simply playing music together?In this moving episode of HarmonyTALK, host Todd Stephens sits down with renowned percussionist, jazz vibraphonist, educator and Peace Drums Project founder Harvey Price to explore how one unlikely instrument became a bridge across cultural and religious divides in the war-torn Middle East.After decades as a music educator and director of the University of Delaware steel band, Harvey founded the Peace Drums Project in 2012 with a simple but profound belief: Children are not born with hatred. They come into this world filled with curiosity and the desire to connect.By bringing Israeli and Palestinian children together through shared steel drum ensembles, the Peace Drums Project fosters friendship, collaboration and humanity that rise above politics and conflict. Harvey explains why he intentionally chose the steel drum, an instrument with no cultural or political ownership in the region, and how music creates emotional space where conversation often cannot.At a time when violence and division continue to dominate the lives of children in the Middle East, this conversation feels especially urgent. Harvey reflects on why peace matters now more than ever and why creating opportunities for children to see each other as human beings may be one of the most important acts of hope in the world today.This episode explores music as diplomacy, the emotional power of collaboration, interfaith understanding, childhood connection, and the courage to believe peace can begin one relationship at a time.Perfect for listeners passionate about music education, peacebuilding, intercultural dialogue, social impact, community leadership, and stories that remind us what is still possible.Follow Peace Drums Project on Instagram:@PeaceDrumsProjectlinktr.ee/peacedrumsprojecthttps://peacedrumsproject.org/

Dive into the rich history of jazz with Loren Schoenberg, Grammy Award-winning saxophonist, conductor, and senior scholar at the National Jazz Museum in Harlem. In this HarmonyTALK episode, Loren chats with host Lisa Champeau about his experiences performing with jazz legends, his work preserving American jazz history, and his journey as a respected educator at institutions like Juilliard and the Manhattan School of Music. If you’ve ever had an interest in the inside look at the career of a multi-faceted musician, this episode uncovers the stories, sounds, and cultural impact of jazz music and offers unique insights into Loren's career, dedication, and passion for the genre.FOLLOW HARMONYTALK PODCAST @harmonytalkpodcastJoin Our Mailing List: https://www.harmonytalkpodcast.com/signup Instagram: https://instagram.com/harmonytalkpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harmonytalkpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@HarmonyTALKPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harmonytalkpodcast   https://harmonytalkpodcast.com/ Follow Host, Lisa Champeau: https://www.instagram.com/lisachampeau/ Email [email protected] for sponsorship and guest opportunities!  

Join us on this captivating episode of HarmonyTALK Podcast hosted by Lisa Champeau as we delve into the fascinating world of "Lover's Eyes" with Nan and David Skier, a remarkable couple from Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. David, a retired ophthalmologist, and his wife Nan have spent the past two decades amassing an extraordinary collection of these unique and historical artworks.Lover's Eyes are miniature portraits featuring disembodied eyes, meticulously painted on ivory and often surrounded by intricate frames. Originating in Europe around the 1800s, these intimate pieces were typically commissioned to commemorate a secret love or a deep, personal bond, often with the identity of the sitter remaining a mystery.In this episode, Nan and David share the story behind their collection, which began with David's professional fascination with the human eye and evolved into a passionate quest to preserve these delicate mementos of affection and intrigue. With around 100 pieces in their possession, discover how these tiny works of art have become a bridge between the past and the present, and how the Skiers' dedication has brought to light a little-known yet profoundly touching aspect of art history. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the unusual, this episode is for you. Nan and David Skier will discuss their journey, their collection, and the timeless allure of Lover's Eyes.FOLLOW HARMONYTALK PODCAST @harmonytalkpodcastJoin Our Mailing List: https://mailchi.mp/fa5d124c4e19/harmonytalk-mailing-list  Instagram: https://instagram.com/harmonytalkpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harmonytalkpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@HarmonyTALKPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harmonytalkpodcast   https://harmonytalkpodcast.com/  

Bob Eckstein, an award-winning writer, illustrator, and cartoonist, discusses his latest book, 'Footnotes from the World's Greatest Museums.' He shares his motivation for delving into museums and highlights the diverse range of museums featured in the book. Bob emphasizes the user-friendly nature of the book, catering to a wide audience beyond art lovers. He also talks about the power of art to move and inspire, sharing personal experiences from his visits to museums. Bob reflects on his career as a cartoonist and the challenges he faced, as well as his passion for writing and teaching.FOLLOW HARMONYTALK PODCAST @harmonytalkpodcastJoin Our Mailing List: https://www.harmonytalkpodcast.com/signup Instagram: https://instagram.com/harmonytalkpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harmonytalkpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@HarmonyTALKPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harmonytalkpodcast   https://harmonytalkpodcast.com/  Follow Host, Lisa Champeau: https://www.instagram.com/lisachampeau/ Email [email protected] for sponsorship and guest opportunities! 

HarmonyTALK is thrilled to welcome Dan Micciche, the Music Director and Conductor of WICKED on Broadway. With over nine years working on this iconic production, Dan offers a unique look behind the curtain at what it takes to keep one of the world’s biggest shows running. Host Lisa Champeau dives into Dan's impressive career journey, from his start on Broadway in CHICAGO to his work across international tours, and the moments that led him to this incredible role. Whether you're a theater lover, a WICKED fan, or simply curious about the inner workings of Broadway, this episode will leave you spellbound!Key Takeaways:Behind the Scenes of WICKED: Dan shares what it takes to conduct and direct music for one of Broadway's most beloved productions, plus the unique challenges and joys of leading the show.Broadway Journey: Hear about Dan’s transition from performer to conductor, starting as the youngest actor to play Mary Sunshine in CHICAGO to becoming a key member of WICKED's casting and music team.Building Connections Through Music: Dan’s insights on creating memorable performances and his passion for coaching emerging talent through his work with the International Music Theatre Academy and Hit It Productions Inc. FOLLOW HARMONYTALK PODCAST @harmonytalkpodcastJoin Our Mailing List: https://www.harmonytalkpodcast.com/signup Instagram: https://instagram.com/harmonytalkpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harmonytalkpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@HarmonyTALKPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harmonytalkpodcast   https://harmonytalkpodcast.com/  Follow Host, Lisa Champeau: https://www.instagram.com/lisachampeau/ Email [email protected] for sponsorship and guest opportunities!  

In this episode of HarmonyTALK, we sit down with Gene Monahan, the legendary New York Yankees athletic trainer who dedicated over 50 years of his career to Major League Baseball. From his early days as a young dreamer with a passion for baseball, Gene's journey led him to the pinnacle of professional sports, helping world-class athletes perform at their best. As the Yankees’ head athletic trainer for four decades, join us as we explore Gene’s inspiring path to becoming an integral part of a championship team. Whether you're a sports fan or simply love stories of perseverance and passion, this episode is sure to inspire!Key Takeaways:Gene’s path to becoming a Major League Baseball trainerThe behind-the-scenes stories from working with legendary Yankees players and coachesThe importance of resilience and dedication in pursuing a dreamThe lessons learned along the way FOLLOW HARMONYTALK PODCAST @harmonytalkpodcastJoin Our Mailing List: https://www.harmonytalkpodcast.com/signup Instagram: https://instagram.com/harmonytalkpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harmonytalkpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@HarmonyTALKPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harmonytalkpodcast   https://harmonytalkpodcast.com/ Follow Host, Greg Frigoletto: https://www.instagram.com/gjfrig7/ Email [email protected] for sponsorship and guest opportunities!  

In this episode of Harmony Talk, host Todd Stephens interviews Ella Parlor, a marketing expert with a rich background in the beverage industry. Ella shares her journey from humble beginnings in the service industry to becoming a successful consultant and author. The conversation delves into the complexities of alcohol marketing, the importance of compliance, and the duality of celebrating success while facing personal challenges. Ella emphasizes the significance of service, preparation, and the need for open discussions about alcohol consumption and its societal implications. The episode concludes with Ella's reflections on her career, personal growth, and future endeavors in private equity and brand consulting.Key Takeaways:Opportunities are all around us; be prepared for them.Service is at the heart of every successful endeavor.Compliance in the alcohol industry is crucial and complex, and the beverage industry requires strategic marketing across multiple tiers.Personal experiences shape our understanding of industry challenges. FOLLOW HARMONYTALK PODCAST @harmonytalkpodcastJoin Our Mailing List: https://www.harmonytalkpodcast.com/signup Instagram: https://instagram.com/harmonytalkpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harmonytalkpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@HarmonyTALKPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harmonytalkpodcast   https://harmonytalkpodcast.com/ Follow Host, Todd Stephens: https://www.instagram.com/workinman1/ Email [email protected] for sponsorship and guest opportunities! 

In this heartfelt episode of HarmonyTALK, host Todd Stevens sits down with Mitch Motivates, author of “My Addiction, My Superpower.” Mitch opens up about his early struggles with substance abuse and the turning point that led him to a life of sobriety and purpose. In 2006, one week shy of his 19th birthday, Mitch Leff found himself in rehab for drug addiction. After spending time in rehab, halfway houses, and collegiate recovery programs, he moved to New York and made something special of his life.He started ‘Mitch Motivates’ after noticing the need for experienced, independent experts in the recovery community. He has been in recovery since 2006 when he was only 19 years old. For over 17 years, Mitch has been a leader and expert in addiction, recovery, sobriety, and mental health.In his book “My Addiction, My Superpower,” Mitch shares his recovery journey in detail, in which he reveals the lessons he learned and breaks them down into twelve easy tips for anyone who has been impacted by addiction, mental health, or substance abuse.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, the power of vulnerability, and using personal pain to fuel your life’s mission.Key Takeaways: Mitch's journey from a straight-laced New Jersey kid to battling substance abuse by age 19How Mitch turned his addiction into a strength, fueling his drive to help others Insight into the importance of vulnerability and embracing struggles to find strengthFollow Mitch Leff: Check out his book, “My Addiction, My Superpower” - https://shorturl.at/AR0zJ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchmotivates/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mitchmotivates LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchleff/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThatSoberGuyPodcast https://mitchmotivates.com/ FOLLOW HARMONYTALK PODCAST @harmonytalkpodcastJoin Our Mailing List: https://mailchi.mp/fa5d124c4e19/harmonytalk-mailing-list  Instagram: https://instagram.com/harmonytalkpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harmonytalkpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@HarmonyTALKPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harmonytalkpodcast   https://harmonytalkpodcast.com/ Follow Host, Todd Stephens: https://www.instagram.com/workinman1/ Email [email protected] for sponsorship and guest opportunities! 

Harmony TALK takes a look inside Dear Highlights with author Christine French Cully. Hear what kids have to say over the past 75 years-- you may be surprised!

Juan Espino marries architecture, history and the human experience to create some of the most “smile-inducing” paintings of our time. Working in the “Art Naïve” or, Folk-Art style. Guest Host Todd Stephens, and Juan discuss his use of painting as a form of therapy before relocating to the United States from his native Mexico. He is now the owner of Looking Glass Art Gallery, in Northeast Pennsylvania.  www.lookingglassartgallery.com.  Find Todd Stephens at:@toddjstephens (Twitter)@tjstephens (LinkedIn)@workinman1 (Instagram) 

His life’s work is focused on “creating better humans” through his involvement in the children’s summer camp industry.  Hear entrepreneur and philanthropist, Skip Vichness, talk about how his diverse life, career path and willingness to be completely involved, have led him to the service of others. 

Peter Bohlin, the architect behind many iconic structures, including the Apple store on 5th Avenue in New York, the Barn at Fallingwater and Bill Gates’ Seattle-area mansion, talks to host Lisa Champeau about creating works that are not only sustainable but “humane.” Find out how Peter Bohlin followed his calling. 

Lisa Champeau interviews Dreamer, Entrepreneur and Choreographer Rebecca Davis. Learn how she turned her passion for dance into  a globe-spanning tool for social change.

Congratulations to Celeste Mergens, founder of the global nonprofit Days for Girls International, on the publication of her new book, The Power of Days. Mergens’ programs to fight menstrual stigma can now be found in 140+ countries. She spoke with Harmony TALK host Lisa Champeau in 2022 about her own journey from an impoverished youth to crusader for women’s rights. Her new book, released October 3, 2023, has many poignant—sometimes painful but always moving—stories of struggle and resilience. Celeste and Lisa are joined by Olivia Scartelli, a post-graduate student at the time, who works today for the U.S. Agency for International Development. She helps customize financing solutions for projects in developing countries – including improving women’s access to finance. For more info on Days for Girls, visit www.daysforgirls.org.

Well-known portrait artist Oliver Johnson sat down with Lisa Champeau to discuss his art and tumultuous youth in and out of reform schools and prisons, and how during these confinements he always painted. Prison provided him with the tools he needed: canvas, paint, and, of course, plenty of time. Oliver talks about his journey of teaching art to his fellow inmates, and how, by the time he was paroled, he had a waiting line to attend his classes. Since Oliver Johnson’s untimely death due to illness in 2021, shortly after this interview, his name and his work have reached new heights, his passion forever remembered in his art. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/harmonytalk/id1573509159?i=1000533117818

Funky bluesy riffs—a Southern pace out of a New York base!  The Gold Magnolias talk with Lisa Champeau about how their dream to make music became a “golden” reality. Based in Brooklyn, Daniel Foose, Hudson Mueller, Evan Felts, Ryan Anselmi and Jeff Barton evoke jam-band sounds reminiscent of the Alabama Shakes and Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats.  Their melodies pay homage to their musical heroes, including Willie Nelson, the Allman Brothers and Stevie Wonder.  This interview first aired in June of 2021. The band performs live on the Harmony in the Woods stage in Hawley, Pennsylvania on August 19th, 2023.