The Popko Project

In Episode 276 of The Popko Project Podcast, Popko sits down with New York-based rock band Scarhaven for a conversation about the band's beginnings, finding their identity, and carrying the spirit of ’90s alternative and grunge into a new generation.Scarhaven wears its influences proudly — drawing inspiration from bands like Soundgarden, Stone Temple Pilots and Nirvana — while working to create something that feels authentic to who they are rather than simply recreating the past. We get into how the band came together, the chemistry between its members, developing their sound, and what it means to make guitar-driven rock music in 2026.The conversation also digs into the realities of being an emerging band today, the importance of staying true to yourself, building an audience, and why the live experience still matters. Plus, we talk about what's happening in the Scarhaven camp right now, where they hope to take the band next, and plenty more along the way.If you miss loud guitars, big riffs and bands that actually feel like bands, Scarhaven should be on your radar.Episode 276 of The Popko Project Podcast featuring Scarhaven — available now wherever you get your podcasts.Brought to you by Keller's Garden Center & Landscaping Services, Ionic Development, The V-Spot Bar and Scotch Sauce - makers of Happy Boy Hot Sauce and Sauced Up Jerky. Get 15% off your order at scotchsaucehotsauce.com with code POPKO at checkout

In Episode 275 of The Popko Project Podcast, Popko sits down with Nashville-based artist, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Johnny Cochran to talk about finding your own lane, staying authentic and why success in music can't always be measured by the numbers on a screen.Originally from Louisiana, Johnny grew up surrounded by music before eventually making the move to Nashville. After initially pursuing country music — including opening opportunities with artists like Brett Young, Walker Hayes and Blake Shelton — Johnny realized the music he was making wasn't an authentic representation of who he was. That realization ultimately led him back toward his rock and pop-rock roots and the sound he's creating today.Johnny breaks down his new album, Empty Shell of the Good Old Days, a nostalgic collection of songs inspired by love, relationships and looking back at moments that aren't quite the same anymore. He describes his sound as "sad boy pop rock," blending melancholy lyrics with bright, energetic music and influences ranging from synthwave to modern rock.We dive into standout tracks including "Miami," "A Couple More Hours Till the Sun Comes Up," "I Should Know Better" and the album's sleeper track, "Shades of You." Johnny also shares the story behind the "Miami" music video and reveals that he's working on a full live recording of the album filmed at the actual house connected to the period of his life that inspired the record.The conversation also gets into the realities of being an independent artist in today's music industry. Johnny explains why he considers streaming numbers a "vanity metric," how great marketing can sometimes outperform great music, and why he'd rather build an audience that buys tickets and shows up in the room than simply chase millions of streams.Johnny also talks about what he wants his live show to become, leaning even further into rock on his next record, making a living as a working musician in Nashville, and his plans for more music videos, live performances and another album potentially arriving in 2027.Plus, we get into his early influences including Switchfoot, Relient K and Underoath, the impact of bands like The 1975 and The Band CAMINO, growing up around his local hardcore scene, The Office, Breaking Bad, Dragon Ball Zand plenty more.If Johnny Cochran isn't on your radar yet, this is a good place to start — and when you're done with the episode, go listen to "Miami."The Popko Project Podcast is proudly sponsored by:Keller's Garden Center and Landscaping ServicesIonic DevelopmentThe V-Spot BarScotch Sauce — makers of Happy Boy Hot Sauce and Sauced Up Jerky. Get 15% off your order at scotchsaucehotsauce.com with code POPKO at checkout.

On Episode 274 of The Popko Project Podcast, Popko sits down with Blake, guitarist for Southern California rock band Joyous Wolf, ahead of the release of their long-awaited debut full-length album, In Between, arriving August 21st.Blake takes us inside the evolution of Joyous Wolf—from their early days playing local shows in Orange County and hitting the road in a van, to signing record deals, navigating lineup changes, and welcoming new vocalist Pedro Cordeiro into the fold. We dig into the making of In Between, why the album took years to finally see the light of day, and the songs that helped define the band's next chapter, including “Juniper,” “Storm,” “Get Myself Right,” and the sleeper track “The Mechanic.”The conversation also goes well beyond the new record. Blake and Popko talk about the lost art of listening to albums front-to-back, discovering music in record stores, Guitar Hero inspiring a new generation of musicians, whether rock is really “dead,” the importance of live music, and why genuine human connection still matters in an increasingly digital world.If you love rock music, record stores, killer live shows, and conversations about why music continues to mean so damn much to us, this episode is for you.Joyous Wolf's In Between drops August 21st. Follow Joyous Wolf on social media and find their music wherever you stream.And as always, a huge thank you to the sponsors who support The Popko Project Podcast and help make the show possible - Keller's Garden Center & Landscaping Services, Ionic Development, The V-Spot Bar and Scotch Sauce - makers of Happy Boy Hot Sauce - get 15% off your order at scotchsaucehotsauce.com with code POPKO at checkout

Content Advisory: This episode includes discussion of suicide, mental health, grief, and loss. Listener/viewer discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available by calling or texting 988 (U.S. and Canada) or by contacting your local crisis resources.Burial Ground is back!In Episode 273, I sit down with members of the legendary NEPA hardcore pioneers to talk about the band's return, their brand-new EP, and the legacy they've built over more than three decades. We dive into the origins of Burial Ground, their influence on the hardcore scene, and how modern technology made it possible for the band—now spread across the country—to create new music together.One of the most moving moments of the conversation centers around "Forever Friends," a powerful new track featuring the late Jamie White's vocals, reconstructed from a 1996 live recording using modern AI technology. The band shares the emotional story behind finishing one final song with their friend and honoring his legacy.We also spend a significant part of the episode discussing Hardcore For Husvar, the annual benefit show created in memory of Neil Husvar. From celebrating the NEPA hardcore community to raising awareness for mental health through NAMI and funding scholarships in Neil's name, this conversation highlights the incredible bonds that music creates—and why those connections matter now more than ever. Hardcore For Husvar will take place July 25th 2026 at St. Mary's Center in Scranton.If you're a fan of hardcore music, NEPA's rich music history, or conversations about friendship, loss, resilience, and creating something meaningful, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Special thanks to our sponsors:-Keller's Garden Center and Landscaping Services-Ionic Development-The V-Spot Bar-Scotch Sauce – makers of Happy Boy Hot Sauce and Sauced Up Jerky. Get 15% off your order at scotchsaucehotsauce.com with promo code POPKO.

What happens when you walk away from a successful career to pursue the thing you can't stop thinking about?In Episode 272 of The Popko Project Podcast, host Popko sits down with singer-songwriter Jonathon Penn to discuss his journey from a career in finance to becoming an independent musician. Jonathon shares the inspiration behind his new album, It Took a Long Time To Get Young, and opens up about creativity, songwriting, self-doubt, family, and what it means to build a life around purpose instead of expectations.The conversation explores the challenges of leaving a stable career, rediscovering your artistic voice, and navigating today's independent music industry. Jonathon also discusses how fatherhood, the loss of his dad, and years spent away from music ultimately shaped the songs on his latest record.If you're interested in indie music, singer-songwriters, songwriting, creativity, career changes, independent artists, Americana, alternative rock, or personal growth, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.In this episode, we discuss:• Why Jonathon Penn left a successful career in finance to pursue music• The making of It Took a Long Time To Get Young• Finding creativity again after years away from songwriting• The realities of being an independent musician in the streaming era• Balancing family, ambition, and artistic fulfillment• Songwriting, inspiration, and trusting your creative instincts• The stories behind "Hawk Circling," "Wildfire," "Gold Rush," and moreListen to Jonathon Penn's music on Spotify, Apple Music, and wherever you stream music.If you enjoy conversations with musicians, artists, creatives, and independent creators, be sure to follow The Popko Project Podcast for new episodes featuring compelling guests and authentic conversations about music, creativity, and life.

Krista Berardelli Shares the Story Behind Rock to Remember | The Popko Project Podcast Episode 271 Some stories deserve to be told because they have the power to inspire others. This conversation with Krista Berardelli is one of those stories. On Episode 271 of The Popko Project Podcast, Krista opens up about the life and […]

In Episode 270 of The Popko Project Podcast, we sit down with Matt and Stephen from Philadelphia pop-punk band Dead Wrong to discuss their debut full-length album, The Extent, their upcoming album release show, and the journey that brought the band together. The conversation dives into the band’s origins, songwriting process, musical influences, and the […]

On this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, we sit down with Derrick Ryan, the creative force behind Minute After Midnight, to talk about his journey from skate parks and local hardcore shows in Tennessee to signing with Fearless Records and building one of rock’s most promising emerging projects. Derrick shares the story behind the […]

In Episode 268 of The Popko Project Podcast, I sit down with rising alt-rock band American Vanity to talk about their explosive growth on social media, the evolution from Burn the Jukebox into American Vanity, their upcoming album, touring life, music influences, and what it really takes to break through in today’s music scene. The […]

On this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, we sit down with post-hardcore veterans A Static Lullaby for an in-depth conversation about their long-awaited return, revisiting their classic album …And Don’t Forget to Breathe, and reconnecting with the music that helped define an era of emo and post-hardcore music. The band reflects on their rise […]

In this episode of the Popko Project Podcast, the spotlight is on Baltimore pop punk band AITA (stylized A.I.T.A.), a fast-rising group blending emotional honesty, explosive energy, and modern pop punk attitude. The band joins the show to talk about their unique origin story, how they chose their name, the realities of being independent musicians […]

In Episode 265, Popko sits down with musician, producer, and former Citizen King member Kristian Riley for a deep dive into a career that spans from ‘90s radio fame to today’s ever-evolving music landscape. Kristian reflects on his time in Citizen King, the band behind the hit “Better Days (And the Bottom Drops Out)” sharing […]

Episode 264 of The Popko Project Podcast features S8NT ELEKTRIC 🔥 LA-based pop-metal band S8NT ELEKTRIC joins the show to talk about their explosive new album Off The Edge, the journey behind the band, and what it really means to live life without limits. From meeting online and building a band from scratch… to creating […]

In this episode, rising Revival Rock artist Chris Greiner joins The Popko Project Podcast to talk about his music, faith, and the story behind “All Will Be Well.” Chris Greiner is a 20-year-old singer-songwriter out of Bucks County, PA, who’s carving out his own lane with what he calls “Revival Rock”—a blend of country, southern […]

In this episode, Popko sits down with Logan from Scarlett O’Hara for a high-energy, no-BS conversation about music, identity, and staying real in today’s scene. The Texas-based metalcore band isn’t holding anything back — and neither is this interview. They get into the band’s evolution, creative mindset, and what it takes to stand out while […]

Episode 261 of The Popko Project Podcast features a powerful and nostalgic conversation with Aaron Fink (former guitarist of Breaking Benjamin) and Baxter Teal (of Deepfield), as they discuss the highly anticipated live event “We Are Not Alone.” On March 7th at Front Street Station in Northumberland, PA, Fink reunites with original Breaking Benjamin members […]

Episode 260 of The Popko Project Podcast features an in-depth conversation with Crispin Earl of The Veer Union. From major label success to taking control of their masters, The Veer Union have navigated the ever-changing music industry with resilience, strategy, and relentless work ethic. In this episode, Crispin opens up about the band’s evolution, surviving […]

Ep. 259 – Geena Russo: From Tattoos to Tailgates – Building NEPA’s Wildest Country Music Festival In Episode 259 of The Popko Project Podcast, I sit down with Geena Russo, founder of the River Wave Country Music Festival and co-owner of the beloved 570 Tattooing Company. This episode dives deep into how Geena took her […]

On Episode 257 of The Popko Project Podcast, I’m joined by Tysoul for a conversation that’s equal parts real talk and creative fuel. We get into the moments that shaped him, what drives his sound, and how he balances passion with the pressure to keep leveling up. We dig into the creative process, the influences […]

Episode 256 – In A Perfect Sky | The Popko Project Podcast 🎙️ In this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, Popko is joined by Gerry from In A Perfect Sky, an emerging acoustic/emo/indie duo from Northeastern Pennsylvania. They dive deep into the band’s beginnings, Gerry’s transition from bassist to frontman, and the creation of […]

About This Episode In this episode, Popko sits down with Ray Meoni and Kyle Johnson to talk about Scranton Skalidays 2025, happening December 20th at The Ritz Theater in downtown Scranton. Skalidays has become a Northeast PA holiday tradition — a massive celebration of ska, punk, and community. Now in its fourth year, Skalidays continues […]

Guest: Nick Summons, Founder of Dunder Mixin Entertainment Podcast: The Popko Project Podcast Presented by: Keller’s Garden Center & Landscaping Services • Ionic Development • The V-Spot Bar • Scotch Sauce Hot Sauce — Makers of Happy Boy Hot Sauce.🔥 Get 15% off with code POPKO at scotchsaucehotsauce.com About This Episode In this episode, Popko […]

Welcome to Episode 253 of The Popko Project Podcast, featuring a powerful conversation with Olivia Elizabeth Basar — a rising NEPA artist sharing her creative journey, musical influences, and what drives her to keep making honest, heartfelt music. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering Olivia for the first time, this episode dives into […]

🎧 Episode 252 – Cowgirl Pills In this episode of The Popko Project, I’m joined by Dylan and Eilish—better known as Cowgirl Pills, the rising DJ duo who’ve taken NEPA by storm. We chat about their whirlwind journey from bedroom DJs to booking 75+ gigs in less than a year, including clubs, weddings, First Friday […]

🎙️ Episode 251 – Aaron Zona for Mayor of Factoryville The Popko Project gets political! In a special civic edition of The Popko Project Podcast, Popko sits down with Aaron Zona, a longtime community member, small business owner, and now mayoral candidate for Factoryville, PA. Known for his 16+ years at the helm of Sick […]

In this special 250th episode of The Popko Project Podcast, singer-songwriter Dave Hause joins us for a deeply honest and wide-ranging conversation about life, creativity, family, and punk rock. From his early days with The Loved Ones to the raw energy of his latest album And The Mermaid, Dave opens up about making music with […]

In this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, we sit down with multi-talented artist, producer, and studio owner Patrick Motto for an in-depth, honest, and heartfelt conversation. From opening for Breaking Benjamin the night they were signed, to launching his own recording facility, PM Soundscape Studios, Patrick shares his two-decade journey in music — from […]

From playing guitar in his kitchen to hearing his first song on the radio 📻 — John Bower’s journey into music is as real and down-to-earth as it gets. In this episode, we talk about: – How a random invite led to his first live gig – His debut song “LE Around OV” — and […]

In this episode, Popko sits down with Joe Caviston, the driving force behind the Electric City Music Conference and the Steamtown Music Awards, now entering their 12th year. Joe reflects on the journey from humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of the Scranton music scene, and why this massive effort is his way of giving […]

In this episode, Popko sits down with Atari + Mari, a music duo that’s doing something different — real emotion, real connection, and no filter. We talk about how they built their unique lo-fi sound, why sad songs matter, and how music can actually help people get through some dark stuff. This one goes deep […]

In this episode of The Popko Project, Popko hangs out with the awesome humans behind American Television — a D.C.-based punk band that’s been pushing out melodic anthems with a message for over a decade. We dive deep into their upcoming EP, You Are Not Alone (dropping September 19), which delivers a rallying cry for […]

After over a decade since their last full-length release, Sainthood Reps are back and louder than ever. In this episode, Popko sits down with Derek to talk about the band’s origins, the Long Island scene that shaped them, and their highly anticipated new record, Dull Bliss, dropping September 26th. They dive into the chaos of […]

After nearly three years, University Drive returns to The Popko Project Podcast! Ed, Mark, and Ryan(kinda) join the show for a wide-ranging conversation covering everything from their gritty new EP “First Stage Separation” to their experiences touring with Cold. The band shares insights into recording live to tape at Electrical Audio, the evolution of their […]

In this episode, Popko sits down with Zach from Denver hardcore/nu-metal/hip-hop fusion band Fox Lake to talk about their brand-new full-length album New World Heat (released August 1). Zach dives into the two-year creative process behind the record, how the band built it around the concept of “pure adrenaline,” and why they fully embraced their […]

This week, Popko sits down with Austin from Pittsburgh rock outfit Rex Tycoon to talk about their debut full-length album “No Limit 2 Love”, now out everywhere. They dive into: 🎸 The band’s origins — from college jams to a pandemic-fueled creative burst 💿 The raw, no-frills recording process (live tracked in just 2.5 days!) […]

In this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, we explore the rise of The Electric City Surf Club, an experimental indie music collective that’s redefining Scranton’s local music scene. Founder Sean Flynn dives into how the band started, what drives their DIY creative philosophy, and how they’re building a community-first music movement right here in […]

In this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, Popko catches up with blues-rock powerhouse Dustin Douglas to celebrate the release of his band, Dustin Douglas & The Electric Gentlemen, brand-new album, IV. Two years after their last podcast hang, Dustin returns to dive into the creative journey behind IV — from writing and recording to […]

In this episode, Popko is joined by Jacob from The Heartstrings, the rising country-rock band making serious waves out of Williamsport, PA. From humble beginnings with broken sound systems to playing packed-out festivals like River Wave Country Music Festival , Jacob shares the band’s 10-year journey, the stories behind their emotionally charged debut album Sad […]

This episode is one of those rare conversations that really sticks with you. Guilford Adams is a professional clown — yes, an actual clown — but also an actor, performer, and now the director of American Clown, a powerful new documentary exploring the strange, funny, and sometimes heartbreaking story of clown culture in America. We […]

We’ve got Nick and Mike from Wounded Touch on the show, and let me tell you—these dudes go deep. They’re not just making heavy music, they’re living it. Their new album, A Vivid Depiction of Collapse, is this raw, unfiltered punch to the soul about life, fatherhood, growing up, and yeah—things falling apart. We talk […]

In this high-energy and hilariously heartfelt episode, I’m joined by the chaotic creatives behind Kitchen Teeth, one of NEPA’s most refreshingly raw and wildly original bands. And they’ve got something BIG brewing—literally and musically. 🦷🔥 Their new full-length album, “Sink Your Teeth In”, drops June 6th, and they’re celebrating in style with an album release […]

In this episode, we sit down with the dynamic minds behind Bellwether Ritual, a rising force in the Lehigh Valley stoner/doom rock scene. We talk everything from the band’s gritty origins during the pandemic to their evolving sound that blends grunge roots, Black Sabbath fuzz, and haunting vocal harmonies. 🎸 We dive deep into: -The […]

In this episode, we welcome Tiny Ships, a New Jersey-based band that’s making waves with heartfelt songwriting, sold-out shows, and a deep commitment to mental health awareness. What started as a studio project during COVID has quickly evolved into a powerful, emotionally honest band blending singer-songwriter sensibility with influences from metal, hardcore, pop, and everything […]

In this episode, we’re joined by Ben from UK post-hardcore/alternative band Acres to talk about their highly anticipated new album The Host, out NOW. Ben dives into the band’s evolution from melodic hardcore to a genre-blending force, working with producer Landon Tewers (The Plot In You), and the creative process of crafting an album with […]

In this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, we sit down with Camille, the powerhouse vocalist of the French metalcore band Novelists, to talk about their upcoming album Coda, out May 16. We dive into Camille’s journey joining the band just a year and a half ago, the emotional depth of the new record, her experience touring the […]

In this episode of The Popko Project, we welcome Charlie Biscotto — aka the man who accidentally broke the internet by running up a down escalator at WrestleMania 41. What started as a post family dinner gathering and casual Instagram scroll turned into viral fame when host Popko realized the man in the now-iconic video […]

Ep. 229 of The Popko Project Podcast is here featuring Debt Neglector – Orlando punk band with a brand new LP that, well… Kinda Rips 🤘 (now streaming everywhere) We talk about:🎸 The DIY grind & staying punk past 40📚 Their surprising past lives as teachers🎤 Writing politically charged songs with personal weight💥 New record, […]

In this episode, Popko catches up with genre-blending powerhouse Nathan James, fresh off tour with Attila and gearing up for his debut album release this July. Nathan opens up about the deeply personal inspiration behind his hit single “Alienation”, a track born from a storm of anxiety, identity struggles, and raw creative energy. He also […]

In this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, host Popko sits down with Nick Bruce, owner and manager of Wise Crackers Comedy Club located inside Mohegan Pennsylvania Casino in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Nick shares the behind-the-scenes reality of running a comedy club — from booking nationally touring stand-up comedians to cleaning up after rowdy nights and dealing with everything in between. Discover […]