Next Rung Radio

What does it take to chase a dream that started at 15 years old and never let go?Country artist Noah Hutton returns to Next Rung Radio to share what has changed since his last visit, including getting married, releasing new music, opening for major artists, and navigating the highs and lows of the music business. From sleeping in the uncertainty of "what's next" to stepping onto stages with unwavering faith, Noah opens up about the sacrifices, setbacks, and blessings that continue to shape his journey.This episode is a powerful reminder that success isn't built overnight. It's built through consistency, resilience, surrounding yourself with the right people, and trusting God's timing when the path ahead doesn't make sense.If you're chasing a dream of your own, Noah's story will inspire you to keep climbing.Key Takeaways• God's timing is always better than our own.• Success requires sacrifice and consistency.• The right people can change your life.To Learn More about Noah Visit https://www.instagram.com/noahhuntonmusic/?hl=enSupport the show

What does it take to turn a backyard smoker into one of Nashville’s most recognized barbecue brands?In this episode of Next Rung Radio, Ron Creech sits down with entrepreneur and HoneyFire BBQ founder Ben Claybakerto discuss the real story behind building a thriving restaurant business from the ground up.From working at a small-town barbecue restaurant in Arkansas to opening multiple locations across Nashville, Ben shares the lessons, failures, risks, and victories that shaped his entrepreneurial journey. He opens up about surviving COVID, building company culture, leading teams, knowing your numbers, and why hospitality is still the foundation of everything he does.Whether you're a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone chasing a dream, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and hard-earned lessons that can help you climb your next rung.Key Takeaways• Hospitality is about serving people, not just selling products• Great culture must be built intentionally and protected daily• Entrepreneurs must know their numbers inside and out• Success comes from calculated risks, not reckless ones• The right team can transform a businessEpisode Highlights• Ben's first job at a barbecue restaurant in Arkansas• Turning a passion for hospitality into a thriving brand• How HoneyFire survived and adapted during COVID• The biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make• Building a winning company culture• Why hiring and firing both matter• Opening HoneyFire's newest Brentwood location• Lessons learned from multiple business ventures• The importance of knowing your financial numbers• How family recipes became part of the HoneyFire storyTo learn more about Ben Claybaker Pleas Visit https://honeyfire.com/Support the show

In this heartfelt episode of Next Rung Radio Podcast, Ron Creech sits down with husband-and-wife country duo Leanne Wise and Derek Allen of October Rose to talk about building a life, family, and music career together through faith, grit, and unwavering commitment.From meeting at a small New Jersey gig to touring across the country with their daughter, the duo opens up about navigating rejection, chasing dreams, balancing marriage with business, and learning how to define success beyond fame and money. Their story is one of resilience, trust, sacrifice, and staying committed to both the music and each other.The conversation also dives into songwriting, raising a child on the road, viral music moments, and how their hit song “Heart Can’t Lie” unexpectedly became an anthem for couples around the world. Honest, inspiring, and deeply relatable, this episode is a powerful reminder that the journey matters just as much as the destination. Key Takeaways• Why communication and trust are everything in relationships• How resilience matters more than overnight success• The importance of defining success on your own termsEpisode Highlights• The story of how October Rose first met• Raising a daughter while touring the country• Viral moments and emotional fan stories• The truth about surviving the music industry as a couple• Behind-the-scenes insight into songwriting and touring lifeTo learn more about October Rose Visit https://www.octoberrosemusic.comSupport the show

In this heartfelt and entertaining episode of Next Rung Radio Podcast, Ron Creech sits down with powerhouse musical duo Wendy Newcomer and David Spiker to talk about music, marriage, tradition, and the magic of Nashville’s legendary honky-tonk scene.From performing at the iconic Robert's Western World to building a life together through music, Wendy and David share incredible stories about balancing creativity, family, touring, songwriting, and life on Broadway in Music City.The conversation dives deep into the evolution of Nashville, preserving traditional country music, working together as a married couple, and why authentic music still has the power to move people emotionally. With touching stories, hilarious moments, and behind-the-scenes insight into Nashville’s music culture, this episode feels like sitting backstage with lifelong friends who truly love what they do. Key Takeaways• Why traditional country music still deeply connects generations• How to successfully balance marriage and creative partnership• The importance of authenticity, consistency, and honoring your craftEpisode Highlights• Behind-the-scenes stories from Robert’s Western World• Growing up surrounded by Nashville music legends• Life as a married musical duo• Emotional audience moments that left entire rooms in tears• Why preserving classic country music mattersTo Learn More About David & Wendy Visit https://www.50shadesofhayband.comSupport the show

In this deeply inspiring and wisdom-filled episode of Next Rung Radio Podcast, Ron Creech sits down with music industry veteran, mentor, entrepreneur, and legacy-builder Steve Goldinger for an unforgettable conversation about life, purpose, resilience, and the power of relationships.From working alongside legendary artists and helping launch careers in the music industry to preserving the teachings and legacy of iconic vocal coach Renee Grant Williams, Steve shares decades of hard-earned wisdom about success, communication, creativity, and staying true to your calling.This episode dives deep into personal growth, learning from adversity, the realities of the music business, building authentic relationships, and why most people fail not because of lack of talent—but lack of action. Packed with powerful one-liners, emotional stories, and timeless life lessons, this conversation is a masterclass in persistence, passion, and purpose. Key Takeaways• Why “live and learn” is the foundation of growth• The hidden truth about success in the music industry• How relationships and consistency create lasting opportunitiesEpisode Highlights• Steve’s journey from New York to Nashville• Behind-the-scenes stories from the music business• The legacy and teachings of Renee Grant Williams• Powerful advice for singers, artists, and entrepreneurs• Why talent alone is never enough to succeedSupport the show

What if success wasn’t about waiting until 65 to finally enjoy your life? In this powerful episode of Next Rung Radio Podcast, Ron Creech sits down with financial expert, best-selling author, and founder of Adams Wealth Partners, David Adams, for a deeply inspiring conversation about money, purpose, legacy, and freedom.From helping overwhelmed creatives and entrepreneurs build wealth with intention to teaching families how to create meaningful memories instead of simply chasing bigger bank accounts, David shares a refreshing philosophy that challenges the traditional idea of retirement. Together, Ron and David unpack the emotional side of money, generational mindsets, financial anxiety, purpose-driven living, and why the true currency in life is time.This episode is filled with wisdom, heart, and practical advice that could completely change the way you view success and your future. Key Takeaways• Why “retire while you work” is a mindset, not an age• The emotional psychology behind money and financial fear• How meaningful experiences create greater wealth than possessionsEpisode Highlights• David’s emotional story about helping his father retire• The “memory dividends” philosophy that changes lives• Real financial advice for creatives, entrepreneurs, and families• Why time is more valuable than money• Powerful lessons on legacy, generosity, and purposeTo learn More about Dave Adams Visit https://adamswealthpartners.com/Support the show

Some conversations aren’t polished… they’re real.And this one hits deep.Hannah Key shows up with raw honesty, opening up about the intersection of faith and mental health in a way most people are too afraid to. As a model and licensed esthetician, she’s built a life of beauty on the outside—but behind the scenes, she’s faced years of internal battles with ADHD, anxiety, and identity.This episode isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about what it looks like to keep going when your mind feels scattered, your emotions feel overwhelming, and your faith is being tested in real time.Hannah shares how early struggles shaped her understanding of God, how she learned to separate truth from intrusive thoughts, and why surrender—not perfection—became her path forward. Through moments of vulnerability, she reminds us that healing isn’t linear… and strength doesn’t always look strong.If you’ve ever felt misunderstood, overwhelmed, or stuck between who you are and who you’re trying to become, this conversation will meet you right where you are.Because sometimes the next rung… is simply choosing to keep going. Key Takeaways• Healing starts when you replace lies with truth• Faith isn’t perfection—it’s surrender in the struggle• Understanding your mind can help you reclaim your lifeSupport the show

She walked in chasing a dream… and walked out owning her voice.Presley Tennant is not just another rising country artist. She’s a force shaped by discipline, self-awareness, and the courage to pivot when something doesn’t feel real. From her early days balancing competitive soccer and music, to stepping onto the national stage of The Voice, Presley’s journey is a powerful reminder that clarity comes from experience, not perfection.In this episode, Presley opens up about the moment she stopped trying to fit into a pop mold and fully embraced country music as her truth. She shares how working alongside Kelly Clarkson changed her perspective forever, teaching her that if you don’t believe in what you’re doing, no one else will.Beyond music, Presley is building something deeper through her passion project Riffs and Rescues, using her platform to give a voice to animals in need and create real-world impact beyond the stage.This conversation is about identity, growth, trusting your instincts, and having the courage to evolve publicly. It’s not just about chasing a dream… it’s about becoming the person who deserves it. Key Takeaways• You must believe in your path before anyone else ever will• Growth comes from being real, not trying to fit an image• Purpose expands when you use your platform to serve othersTo learn more about Presley visit: Presley TennantSupport the show

What if one song could bring you back to the people you miss the most?Robert Eskridge is not just a country artist. He’s a storyteller shaped by real life, hard decisions, and the kind of values that never go out of style. From his Kentucky bluegrass roots to sharing stages with rising legends, Robert built his journey through passion, family, and a relentless commitment to doing things the right way.In this episode, Robert opens up about stepping away from music at a pivotal moment to prioritize fatherhood, then finding his way back with even deeper purpose. He shares how loss, especially the passing of his father, inspired one of his most powerful songs, If Heaven Had a Phone, and how storytelling through music creates lasting emotional connections.Beyond music, Robert dives into his entrepreneurial world, from decades in product innovation to helping develop cutting edge sleep technology that blends science, sound, and human experience.This conversation is about legacy, values, creativity, and the courage to follow your path even when life forces you to pause. It’s a reminder that success is not just about what you build, but who you become along the way. Key Takeaways• Real success comes from balancing passion with responsibility, especially when family is involved• Authentic storytelling in music creates deep emotional connections that last beyond the moment• Strong values like respect and doing your best can guide every decision in life and businessTo learn More about Robert Visit : Robert EskridgeSupport the show

What happens when a father’s curiosity turns into a world class destination?Jeffrey Gassioni did not just discover kart racing through his son. He saw a bigger vision. What started with loading a few karts into a trailer and exploring tracks around the country became Music City KartPlex, a high level racing experience built from the ground up in Tennessee.In this episode, Jeffrey shares how he walked away from the security of corporate life, trusted his entrepreneurial instincts, and transformed a neglected property in Shelbyville into a growing motorsports destination. He opens up about calculated risk, customer experience, community building, and why creating something meaningful for families and young racers became bigger than business alone.This conversation is about vision, courage, family, and the kind of leadership it takes to build something that did not exist before. Jeffrey’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the greatest opportunities begin when you see potential where others only see problems.Key Takeaways• Jeffrey turned a personal family interest into a thriving motorsports business with a bold long term vision• Great entrepreneurship requires both instinct and preparation, especially when stepping away from a secure career• Building community, customer experience, and family involvement can become the true engine behind lasting successTo learn more about Jeffery visit:  Music City KartplexSupport the show

What happens when life suddenly forces you to slow down and rebuild everything you thought was certain?Jill Brooks knows that moment well. After years of performing music across the country and building a thriving career, she received a life changing medical diagnosis that completely shifted her daily life. But instead of letting it define her, she chose to keep moving forward one day at a time.Today Jill leads an award winning beauty bar in Columbia, Tennessee while navigating a rare and serious medical condition that requires daily treatments just to sustain her health. Through the uncertainty she has discovered something powerful: resilience, faith, and a deeper understanding of what truly matters.In this heartfelt conversation, Jill shares her journey from singing at festivals as a young girl to performing national anthems and touring across the country. She opens up about the mental battle of illness, the strength it takes to keep showing up for the people who depend on you, and how hope can still exist even when the future feels uncertain.This episode is honest, inspiring, and a reminder that courage is not about having perfect days. It is about continuing to move forward even on the hardest ones.Key Takeaways• Jill Brooks built a thriving beauty business while pursuing a lifelong passion for music• A rare medical diagnosis forced her to rethink life while strengthening her resilience and faith• True strength is found in showing up daily even when the road ahead feels uncertainTo learn more about Jill visit: Jill BrooksSupport the show

What do you do when life is breaking your heart and the fight feels endless?Brynn Daniels found laughter in the middle of one of the hardest seasons of her life. While walking through a painful custody battle, family stress, and emotional exhaustion, comedy became more than a stage for her. It became a lifeline. What started as a stand up class turned into a powerful outlet for healing, hope, and helping others breathe again.In this episode, Brynn shares how faith carried her through fear, how honesty with God changed everything, and why laughter can be one of the most powerful tools we have in painful seasons. She opens up about adoption, marriage, blended family struggles, trusting God when nothing seems to move, and building a life rooted in purpose.This conversation is funny, heartfelt, faith filled, and deeply human. It is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, God can still rebuild your life and give you something to smile about.Key Takeaways• Brynn turned pain and uncertainty into hope through clean comedy and faith• Honest prayer and daily spiritual habits helped her stay grounded during a long family battle• Laughter can bring healing, connection, and strength in the middle of heartbreakTo learn more about Brinn visit:  Brinn DanielsSupport the show

What does it take to write more than 400 songs and still chase the next one?Singer songwriter Olivia Francis has been following her inner voice since she picked up a piano at six years old. From open mic nights in Cincinnati to building a career in Nashville, she has turned courage, discipline, and relentless creativity into a growing catalog of music that blends folk, pop, and the beauty of the natural world.In this conversation, Olivia shares how songwriting became her compass, how meditation and stillness help her stay grounded in a chaotic industry, and what it really looks like to build a music career as an independent artist. She talks about trusting your calling, putting in the work when no one is watching, and why sometimes the bravest thing an artist can do is simply keep creating.This episode is a powerful reminder that success is not one moment. It is the daily decision to keep showing up for the music inside you.Key Takeaways• Olivia Francis has written over 400 songs through years of relentless songwriting discipline• Meditation, nature, and stillness help her stay grounded in the fast paced music industry• Independent artists must combine creativity, work ethic, and courage to build their careersTo learn more about Olivia visit:  Olivia Frances Support the show

What if music had colors?Songwriter and artist Ford Cooper experiences music in a way that most people never will. Sounds become colors. Melodies become emotion. Lyrics become pictures in his mind. What some might call neurodivergence, Ford calls a creative superpower.In this fascinating conversation, Ford opens up about how he writes songs by visualizing sound, using color as an emotional compass while crafting melodies and lyrics. He shares how working with top tier producers and Grammy winning collaborators shaped his confidence in the studio and taught him how to trust the creative process.This episode explores imagination, vulnerability, artistic identity, and the courage it takes to lean into the very thing that makes you different. Sometimes the greatest creative advantage is simply seeing the world in a way others cannot.Key Takeaways• Ford Cooper uses color and visualization as emotional anchors when writing music• Creative differences can become powerful advantages in artistic expression• Working with elite producers helped refine his confidence and discipline in the studioTo learn more about For Cooper Visit: Ford CooperSupport the show

From childhood trauma and losing his mother at 10, to inspiring audiences across 45 states, Dr. Jay Banks proves that faith, humor, and imagination can heal even the deepest scars. He's written for Disney Productions, appeared on Nickelodeon and Hallmark, and created the award-winning “I Am Unafraid” anti-bullying movement. In this conversation, Dr. Jay shares how comedy became survival, why windows of the heart open when we laugh, and how God can use anyone— even the broken— to change lives. We dig into parenting, suicide prevention, education’s biggest failures, and what it really takes to raise confident, unstoppable kids. This episode is loud, honest, emotional, and unforgettable.Episode Highlights• National educator and entertainer who proves laughter can open hearts to healing and learning.• Believes if kids laugh, they listen—and if they listen, they learn.• Created the “I Am Unafraid” anti-bullying method: avoid, find a friend, report, act confident.• Shares how childhood trauma, faith, and imagination shaped his mission to empower the overlooked.• Urges parents and teachers to engage, not lecture, and to protect kids through presence and accountability.To Learn more about Dr Jay Banks visit  Dr. Jay BanksSupport the show

Jay Austin’s redemption story moves from addiction, abuse, and years behind bars to a peace he can’t explain without Jesus. In this raw Nashville testimony, Jay shares the moment God “stopped him in his tracks” at a Circle K, how Men of Valor reshaped his identity in Christ, and why community, accountability, and the right voices matter. We talk suicide prevention, transforming shame into wisdom, parenting through repair, and building a purpose-driven life after prison. If you or someone you love is fighting addiction, trauma, or reentry, this faith-forward conversation is a blueprint for second chances and real change.Episode Highlights• From addiction, abuse, and prison to a life redeemed by surrendering fully to Christ.• Shares the moment God stopped his suicide attempt and rewrote his future through grace.• Talks about Men of Valor, fatherhood, and rebuilding self-worth after incarceration.• Shows how shame becomes wisdom when placed in God’s hands and walked out in community.• Inspires listeners to seek help, find purpose, and believe no life is too broken to be rebuilt.Support the show

World-class guitarist and storyteller Bill Worrell (America) unpacks how imagination, discipline, and humility shape a sustainable music career. From touring with America and sharing bills with Chicago and the Beach Boys to building a YouTube audience and studying the modern music business at Berklee Online, Bill explains why rhythm and space make solos sing, how classical precision and jazz freedom sharpen feel, and what it really takes to grow in today’s industry. We dive into legacy-band lessons, social media awareness, daily practice that actually sticks, and creating unforgettable live moments that move audiences. If you play, produce, or lead creatives in Nashville and beyond, this episode is a masterclass in guitar tone, taste, and career strategy.Episode Highlights• Former lead guitarist for the band America who fused classical training, rock performance, and artistic restraint.• Opens up about leaving a legacy band to pursue his own musical identity and creative ownership.• Shares lessons on practice, discipline, and respecting every note’s purpose in songwriting and life.• Encourages artists to choose authenticity over industry trends and to stay a student of their craft.• Advocates using music to connect hearts, not just impress ears, with honesty, space, and intention.To Learn More About Bill Visit  Bill WorrellSupport the show

Hit songwriter and creative mentor Kirsti Manna shares the real story behind Blake Shelton’s five-week number one Austin, the faith that carried her through a college vocal setback, and the practices that turned resilience into results. We unpack her Songwriter Girl camps, why women in music need safe creative spaces, and how mentorship, goal setting, and music publishing literacy change careers. Kirsti explains her process from title-first hooks to collaborative listening, the role of intuition in the writing room, and building an indie label that’s landing Texas number ones. If you write songs, lead creatives, or want a purpose-led career in Nashville, this episode delivers playbook-ready steps.Episode Highlights• Nashville hit songwriter who helped launch Blake Shelton’s career with “Austin” and built her own publishing empire.• Talks about navigating rejection, divorce, and reinvention while staying anchored in faith and creativity.• Shares how songwriting became both her survival and her ministry during life’s darkest chapters.• Explains why belief, resilience, and daily discipline matter more than talent in building a lasting career.• Inspires listeners to protect their voice, trust divine timing, and keep showing up even when no one’s clapping.To Learn more about Kirsti Visit  Kirsti MannaSupport the show

Entrepreneur and viral creator Donald Jenkins built a digital empire reaching billions of views without a blueprint—just belief, storytelling, and persistence. In this episode, he breaks down the attention formula, mastering watch time, and how faith fuels consistency when motivation runs dry. Donald shares his journey from Nashville Hits Collecting Dust to social media success and now using his platform to fight child exploitation through Operation Light Shine. This conversation is raw, practical, and a must for anyone building a brand, platform, or purpose-driven life.Episode Highlights• Built millions of followers by turning rejection, curiosity, and humor into a career in creative storytelling and branding.• Opens up about walking away from podcasting, losing identity, and rebuilding with purpose rather than performance.• Reveals how tragedy, therapy, and faith helped him heal perfectionism and rediscover joy in creating.• Shares strategies for standing out online by leaning into authenticity, not algorithms or imitation.• Encourages listeners to risk being seen, start before they’re ready, and create from who they are—not for validation.To learn more about Donald visit. Donald JenkinsSupport the show

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Next Rung Radio, we sit down with Cathy A. Lewis, one of America’s first female executive chefs who’s cooked for NFL, NBA, and NHL teams, music legends, and Indy 500 champions  and now an award‑winning author and speaker whose story of redemption will stir your soul. From the high‑pressure chaos of the restaurant world and the heartbreak of addiction to a radical life transformation through faith, Cathy reveals how she rebuilt her identity from the inside out. Her courage to confront her past, rediscover her worth, and boldly walk away from destructive habits is nothing short of miraculous. This conversation is raw, redemptive, and real, a true masterclass in grace, resilience, and the power of saying yes to a new life.Episode HighlightsOne of America’s first female executive chefs, who cooked for elite athletes, celebrities, and music icons and then found a higher calling through faith.Opens up about years of addiction, burnout, and searching for identity in the wrong places  and how a divine encounter completely transformed her life.Shares how recommitting to Christ turned her from survivor to servant, now using her culinary gifts to minister to those who minister.Reveals the spiritual awakening that inspired her to write two award‑winning historical fiction books based on her father’s WWII experiences.Encourages listeners to face their past, find their peace, and rediscover purpose through faith, forgiveness, and community.To Learn More About Cathy Visit:  Cathy A LewisSupport the show

This week on Next Rung Radio, we dive into the colorful world of Dean Tomasek, a rare creative who’s lived multiple artistic lifetimes. From painting stage sets for Dolly Parton, Alice Cooper, and KISS, to playing bass on tour and designing murals across the country, Dean’s story is one of true resilience, humility, and raw creative fire. Hear how he shifted from supporting roles to owning his artistry, stayed grounded through feast-or-famine seasons, and built a legacy out of saying YES, even when he didn’t know how. Whether you’re torn between passions or looking for clarity in your creative path, this conversation will inspire you to trust your voice, follow your hands, and keep climbing, no matter what the canvas looks like.Episode HighlightsFrom bassist to muralist: Dean shares how he carved out careers in both music and visual art.Created legendary stage designs for Dolly Parton, Grace Potter, Alice Cooper, and even Kiss (including 6-ft muscular cat sculptures!).Talked about carving giant stage props from Styrofoam with heat wires and rasps, pure grit and invention.Reveals the power of diversity in creativity and the value of being a “yes man” even when the task seems impossible.Highlights how working through the pandemic taught him to pivot and adapt using digital sales and commissioned art.To Learn More About Dean Visit: Dean TomasekSupport the show

In this deeply moving and iconic episode of Next Rung Radio, we sit down with Manuel Cuevas , the 92-year-old master tailor behind the looks of Johnny Cash, Elvis, Dolly Parton, and hundreds of the world’s most celebrated artists. From picking up a needle at age seven to shaping fashion history, Manuel shares how clothing isn't just fabric:  it's identity, storytelling, and legacy. With poetic humility and a mischievous grin, he reminds us that true beauty lies within,  he just adorns it so the world can recognize it. This isn’t just about rhinestones and runways... it’s about purpose, perseverance, and the soul of creation.If you’ve ever doubted your gift or wondered what it means to truly love what you do, this episode is your wake-up call.Episode Highlights Legendary fashion designer who began sewing at age 7 and went on to dress Elvis, Johnny Cash, and even presidents.Describes his mission not to change people but to help them feel seen and celebrated through what they wear.Emphasized cooperation, legacy, and passion as cornerstones of longevity in any creative field.Still creating at 92, sharing wisdom on why work doesn’t feel like work when you love what you do.To Learn More About Manuel Visit Manuel CoutureSupport the show

Get ready for an explosive episode, literally. In this week’s Next Rung Radio Podcast, we sit down with pyrotechnics mastermind Randy Bast, the man behind the fire, sparks, and spectacle for rock legends like KISS, AC/DC, Rush, and even NASCAR and HBO. From lighting his first fuse at just 18 to creating jaw-dropping stage effects across 40+ countries, Randy’s journey is one of grit, passion, and pure rock ‘n’ roll chaos. He opens up about his early hustle as a concert promoter, life on tour with the world’s biggest acts, and the mindset it takes to transform a wild dream into a decades-long global business. You’ll hear about the lessons behind the flames, the financial risks, the heart-stopping setbacks, and the sheer determination that kept him climbing rung after rung toward mastery. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, artist, or dream chaser, this episode will ignite your inner fire and remind you that you can build the life you love...one spark at a time.Episode HighlightsFrom local concert promoter to pyrotechnic legend for KISS, AC/DC, and Rush.Built a global business around his passion for fire, light, and spectacle.Talks openly about financial risks, creative resilience, and learning to ignite success without burning out.Reveals how integrity, relationships, and adaptability kept him thriving for decades.Inspires entrepreneurs to “find your fire”  no matter what industry you’re in.To learn more about Randy Visit  High Tech Special EffectsSupport the show

From a Memphis drum kit to Emmy wins and multiple No. 1 hits, Trey Bruce has spent decades shaping songs and artists who shape the culture. In this wide-open conversation, Trey explains how he turns a spark into a song people actually feel, why “vernacular” matters when writing for different voices, and how he can tell fast when someone’s a real artist. We dig into development vs. radio, why great artists don’t have to write everything they sing, and how streaming built a thriving “middle class” of independent careers. Trey shares stories from the rooms (Tootsie’s to Bridgestone), the discipline behind inspiration, and the producer’s job of pulling artists toward their truest corner, even when the market pushes back. If you’re stuck on a rung: writer, artist, or entrepreneur, this episode gives you an honest map: study the craft, cut the best songs (not just yours), evolve bravely, and keep your eye on the long game.To Learn More About Trey Visit:  https://www.treybruce.comSupport the show

Strict rules. Crushing perfectionism. A decade tangled in opioids. A failed marriage. And the day she found her father after an overdose. By every measure, Jamie Creech had reasons to stop climbing. Instead, she chose the hard path...the one with treatment, truth, and rebuilding. In this raw, hope-heavy conversation, Jamie shares how chasing acceptance turned into addiction, why grief first pulled her under, and how she reframed her father’s death into a mandate to live. We talk about owning consequences, choosing uncomfortable growth, and surrounding yourself with people who won’t let you quit. Today, Jamie is the CEO of Creech Ladder & Racks / Commercial Truck and Van Up Fitting, carrying a multi-generational legacy forward while leading a team and a thriving national operation. If you’re stuck on the bottom rung—wrestling with self-worth, relapse, or the weight of expectations—this episode offers practical footholds: identity over image, 1% better every day, and the courage to take the harder road.To Learn more about Jmie and Creech Ladder Visit:  https://www.creechladder.comhttps://www.facebook.com/AddiMom19Support the show

He built his first obstacles with his grandpa on weekends, bled on monkey bars he couldn’t cross, and years later placed Top 10 on NBC’s American Ninja Warrior at just 16. Now 20, Nashville native Elijah “Boss Ninja” Browning has competed across 34 states and 4 countries, coaches a podium-stacked youth team, builds full courses, and turns passion into business—from merch to sports-card investing. In this high-energy conversation, Elijah breaks down how to love the grind, why “dirty reps” beat highlight reels, and the mindset that lets you perform when millions are watching. He shares the gut-punch of COVID canceling his first ANW call-up, the comeback that followed, and the moment he realized Ninja isn’t his identity—it’s his outlet. We dig into course design secrets, why certain obstacles separate good from great, and how he’s helping the next generation fly (literally) further, faster, smarter. If you need a shot of resilience, practical discipline, and entrepreneurial spark, this one’s a buzzer hit.To Learn More About Elijah "The Boss Ninja" Visit    http://www.thebossninja.comSupport the show

What really powers a world-class tour? In this episode, Ron sits down with veteran tour and artist manager Chuck Pursel, a behind-the-scenes force with 30+ years in live entertainment. From production tents at sunrise to settlements after midnight, Chuck has worn nearly every hat on the road: stage manager, production manager, tour manager and he’s learned the secret to longevity: keep your cool, build a family, and be a good human. He shares how a single moment watching a beaming worker at a row of porta-johns reset his entire perspective, why attitude matters as much as skill, and how teams thrive when conflict is handled offstage, not shouted across it. Chuck also opens up about the 18 months live music went dark, the humbling pivot he made to keep the lights on, and the surge of gratitude when the buses rolled again. Plus: the making of Tracy Lawrence’s Turkey Fry—from a handful of church friends to 80 fryers and thousands fed & what it takes to move 30+ trucks city to city, and the non-negotiables he looks for when hiring. If you want a masterclass in tour culture, leadership under pressure, and purpose that outlasts the spotlight, this conversation is your all-access pass.To Learn More about Chuck Visit: Instagram @chuckpurselSupport the show

From singing Johnny Cash at three to hosting SiriusXM Y2 Country (Ch. 57), Danielle Peck has lived the full arc of country music—bars, churches, buses that broke down in every state, and arena tours that tested every ounce of grit. In this candid sit-down, Danielle opens up about being discovered by Scott Borchetta, cutting sides at DreamWorks, becoming the flagship female at Big Machine Records, and launching with the no-apologies single “Jesus Loves You, I Don’t.” She talks motherhood, faith-before-proof, and why the “wait” in a career is often the best teacher. You’ll hear road stories (Toby Keith and Joe Nichols), the on-air evolution that made her voice as trusted behind the mic as it is on stage, and the mindset that keeps her climbing—plus a sweet shout to her daughter Ava, who started writing songs at eight and hasn’t met a stage she didn’t like. If you need a jolt of real talk about resilience, authenticity, and surrounding yourself with the right people, this one’s for you.What you’ll hear:How a bar room audition led to a record deal—and a 20-year Big Machine celebrationTurning a painful breakup into an anthem that helped listeners leave abuseThe broadcaster’s toolkit: comfort in silence, storytelling, and service to the audienceCareer “wait times,” why they matter, and how to stay readyPractical advice for artists: find your circle, feed your craft, keep saying “yes” to growthTo learn more about Danielle Visit: https://daniellepeck.comSupport the show

On this episode of Next Rung Radio, Audra McLaughlin (NBC’s The Voice, Season 6) brings raw honesty and undeniable power. From on-set bloopers to a goosebump performance of her new song “Hate Being Me,” Audra opens up about self-talk, body image, faith, and the daily fight to choose grace over criticism. It’s a vulnerable, victorious look at how scars, setbacks, and second chances can shape a voice that refuses to break.This conversation centers on self-acceptance and resilience, the inner battle to silence the world’s labels, lay down our “weapons,” and see ourselves as one of a kind. Audra turns pain into purpose, modeling how creative expression (and a fearless live vocal) can help us rewrite the story we tell ourselves. Listeners leave with an anthem: don’t outsource your identity...own it.To learn more about Audra visit:https://audramclaughlin.comSupport the show

On this episode of Next Rung Radio, we shine a light on the magnetic duo Beck and Call. Becca Bradley and Chris Call each walked through the fires of solo artistry, carrying both the scars and the lessons of going it alone. But when they came together, something electric sparked — haunting cello lines intertwined with soulful vocals, pop sensibilities fusing with blues grit, and lyrics that live in the tension between faith, love, and life’s gray areas. Their story isn’t just about music; it’s about trust, vulnerability, and rediscovering your voice through collaboration.This episode is about the power of creative chemistry — how two artists with different backgrounds and styles came together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. We dive into their unique songwriting process, the freedom that comes from dropping ego, the courage to take risks, and their mission to write songs that make listeners feel seen in their own struggles and triumphs. It’s a conversation about honesty, healing, and the magic that happens when music becomes a mirror for the human story.To learn more on Beck and Call visit: https://www.beckandcallmusic.comSupport the show

On this rung of Next Rung Radio, we welcome Ryan Weaver, U.S. Army Black Hawk pilot turned country music firebrand. After losing his brother (KIA) and later his brother-in-law in combat, Ryan chose purpose over paralysis, turning grief into fuel. From karaoke contests and writing songs in the desert to standing center stage at Madison Square Garden, the Grand Ole Opry with Charlie Daniels, and headlining PBR arena shows as their patriotic voice, his story is equal parts sacrifice, grit, and mission. Whether he’s honoring the fallen, building brands, or ripping through “Burn,” Ryan shows what it looks like to dig the ditches, do the work, and live a life worthy of those we’ve lost.This episode is about transforming pain into purpose. Ryan walks us through the mindset shifts that carried him from the cockpit to the spotlight: choose a purpose bigger than yourself, set non-negotiables, build the back-office grind, and keep showing up...especially when it’s hard. His message is simple and fierce: honor your heroes by how you live, not just what you say. If you feel stuck on a low rung, this conversation hands you the next grip—faith, discipline, and relentless follow-through.To learn more about Ryan Visit:https://ryanweaver.netSupport the show

On this rung of Next Rung Radio, we spotlight a visionary who stepped into the music industry not as an artist, but as the strategist who could see what was broken and dared to fix it. Mike Castronovo built his career in wealth management and international markets, mastering numbers the way musicians master notes. But when his daughter pursued music at Belmont, he quickly realized just how flawed and unfair the system was for creators. What started as frustration turned into revelation—and from that revelation, CrowdMusic was born. Alongside David Browning, Mike has been pioneering a new model that places fairness, faith, and community back at the center of music. His story is one of bold imagination, integrity, and the belief that business can be both ethical and transformative.This episode isn’t just about music, it’s about redefining the rules of the game. Mike shares how faith, vision, and business acumen combined to create a platform designed to uplift artists and fans alike. He proves that when you remove greed, build with integrity, and follow God’s timing, you can create something that not only disrupts an industry but sets a new standard for generations to come.To learn more about Mike visit:https://www.cmghomeloans.com/mysite/Mike-Castronovohttps://www.instagram.com/musiccitymortgagecoach/https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikecastronovo/Support the show

On this rung of Next Rung Radio, we sit down with powerhouse vocalist, hit songwriter, author, and two-time cancer survivor David Staton. From singing on gospel stages at the age of six to penning Grammy-nominated songs for some of the biggest names in the genre, David’s life has been defined not just by music but by resilience, faith, and a relentless pursuit of truth. He’s filled in for gospel royalty, shared stages from Branson to national television, and written the book When God Says No. But his greatest testimony is found in how he faced the industry’s highs and lows and cancer, twice...and came out stronger, wiser, and more faith-driven than ever.This episode is a masterclass in faith under fire. David shares how prayer, scripture, and the power of the tongue reshaped his perspective on identity, purpose, and legacy. He reminds us that fate is 50/50, but faith is 100%. His story challenges us to step beyond what we see, to believe in what God has promised, and to live with a vision that inspires others long after the music fades.To learn more about David visit:https://www.davidstaton.comSupport the show

On this rung of Next Rung Radio, we welcome a man whose fingerprints are all over some of the biggest names in music. David Browning has spent more than 30 years as a producer, performer, and songwriter, working alongside artists like Katy Perry, Natalie Grant, and C.C. Winans. But his story goes far beyond studio walls and stages. He’s walked hand in hand with his wife through cancer, navigated personal battles, endured legal storms, and found himself tested in every direction and yet still he rises with humility, faith, and purpose. Now as co-founder of CrowdMusic, David is helping to rewrite the rules of the industry, creating a platform that puts artists and fans first. His testimony is one of grit, vision, and grace in action.This conversation is about more than music. It’s about what it means to live with resilience when life hits harder than you can imagine. David opens up about faith that withstands the storms, relationships that outlast accolades, and the power of generosity and humility in an industry often driven by ego. His story reminds us that legacy isn’t built on awards or numbers, but on the lives we touch, the love we give, and the faith that carries us rung by rung.To learn More about David visit:      https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-browning-544a774/https://www.instagram.com/david_browning_producer/Support the show

Welcome to the very first official episode of Next Rung Radio Podcast, where every rung on the ladder is another step toward purpose, power, and resilience. To kick off this journey, we’re joined by country artist and survivor Cayden Gillard — a man who embodies what it means to rise through adversity. From a leukemia diagnosis at just 14, to picking up a guitar in a hospital room, to chasing rodeo dreams, breaking bones, and eventually breaking through in the music industry — Cayden’s story is one of grit, grace, and God’s guiding hand. He’s opened for superstars, racked up millions of streams, and stood in the spotlight, but what truly sets him apart is how he continues to show up stronger, more grounded, and more faithful, one rung at a time.This episode is about more than survival, it’s about transformation. Cayden’s testimony reminds us that challenges aren’t roadblocks, they’re stepping stones. Through faith, resilience, and a relentless will to keep climbing, he’s turned hardship into harmony and setbacks into setups for success. His journey proves that no matter where you’re starting from, there’s always another rung waiting — and with faith, you’ll find the strength to reach it.To learn more about Cayden visit   https://www.cadengillard.com/Support the show