The Stephan Hogan Podcast

Zack Telander joins The Stephan Hogan Podcast for a conversation about Chris Williamson, Modern Wisdom, Diplo, AI music, fatherhood, creativity, and the fight to keep art human.Many people know Zack through Olympic weightlifting, YouTube, Modern Wisdom, or his friendship with Chris Williamson. But this conversation goes deeper than the clips. Zack shares how he went from fitness creator to songwriter, the moment Chris Williamson encouraged him to record his music, and why that belief changed the direction of his life.We also talk about Zack’s strong stance on AI music, Diplo, Suno, Udio, stolen art, and what happens when people outside of the music community try to decide the future of music for artists, musicians, and fans.But this episode is not just about AI.It is about imposter syndrome, self-awareness, fatherhood, marriage, authenticity, the pressure to constantly post, the loss of artistic mystery, and the tension of trying to make real music in a world that keeps turning everything into content.If you discovered Zack through Modern Wisdom, Chris Williamson, weightlifting, music, or his viral thoughts on AI, this conversation shows the fuller human story behind the opinions.This is a conversation about music, meaning, friendship, Nashville, Austin, rock and roll, country music, and why human-made art still matters.Chapters:00:00:00 Zack Telander on AI Music and the Future of Artists00:06:16 From Olympic Weightlifting to Telling Stories Online00:09:58 Chris Williamson, Belief, and the Song That Changed Everything00:16:15 What Makes Music Actually Matter?00:22:30 Imposter Syndrome, Self-Awareness, and the Artist’s Struggle00:30:00 Why Real Connection Still Wins00:33:45 Musicians, AI, and Protecting Human Creativity00:38:44 How Artists Can Measure Real Wins00:45:00 AI, the Music Gold Rush, and Who Really Profits00:49:59 Authenticity, Live Music, and the Human Element00:57:29 Why Zack Is Chasing Alt Pop Rock01:03:45 Marriage, Fatherhood, and Making No Money Chasing a Dream01:07:30 The Creative Cost of Chasing a Dream01:12:30 Country Music, Genre Bubbles, and Industry Influence01:18:45 Austin vs Nashville and the Reality of the Music Scene01:25:01 Staying Grounded as an ArtistPartner Links:Stay at The Countrypolitan Hotel:https://shorturl.at/JtN6rBank with Studio Bank:https://www.studiobank.com/Drink Stage Water:https://stagewater.com/Clothing by Simon Says Nashville:https://www.simonsaysnashville.com/Subscribe to The Stephan Hogan Podcast for more conversations with artists, songwriters, music executives, entrepreneurs, and creative leaders shaping the future of music, business, and culture.Connect with The Stephan Hogan Podcast:TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail:[email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced by Stephan HoganA Mavericks Media Co. Production

Richard Casper survived four IED blasts as a Marine in Iraq.But the fight that almost took him out did not happen overseas.It happened when he came home.In this episode of The Stephan Hogan Podcast, Richard Casper opens up about combat, traumatic brain injury, PTSD, survivor’s guilt, grief, veteran suicide, and the invisible wounds many veterans carry long after the war is over.After Iraq, Richard struggled to explain what he was carrying. The memories. The guilt. The loss. The things most people could never understand unless they had lived through them.Then he found something that helped him say what normal conversation could not.Music.Art.Story.That discovery became CreatiVets, a nonprofit helping veterans process trauma through songwriting, visual art, and creative expression.Richard has now helped veterans walk into rooms with professional songwriters and artists and turn some of the heaviest parts of their lives into songs, paintings, and stories that finally give language to what they have been carrying.This conversation is about war, but more than that, it is about coming home.It is about the silence many veterans live with.It is about PTSD, C-PTSD symptoms, traumatic brain injury, survivor’s guilt, and the fight to find purpose after service.And it is about how creativity can reach places that words alone often cannot.Donate to CreatiVets:https://creativets.networkforgood.com/projects/93343-creativets-donation-pageConnect with CreatiVets:https://creativets.orgIn this episode:Richard Casper surviving four IED blasts in IraqThe hidden wounds of combatTraumatic brain injury and PTSD after warSurvivor’s guilt and grief after losing fellow MarinesWhy some veterans struggle to talk about what happenedThe connection between veteran suicide, isolation, and purposeHow songwriting can help veterans tell the truthWhy art can reach places normal conversation cannotThe story behind CreatiVetsHelping veterans heal through music, visual art, and creative expressionWhat civilians need to understand about combat veteransThis episode is for veterans, military families, songwriters, artists, nonprofit leaders, and anyone who wants to better understand the war many service members are still fighting after they come home.Subscribe to The Stephan Hogan Podcast for long-form conversations with artists, founders, builders, songwriters, leaders, and builders about faith, pressure, purpose, success, failure, and the cost of building something meaningful.Sensitive topics in this episode include combat trauma, PTSD, grief, and veteran suicide.Countrypolitan: https://shorturl.at/JtN6rStudio Bank: https://www.studiobank.com/Stage Water: https://stagewater.com/Clothing: https://www.simonsaysnashville.com/Filmed in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

Chris Thacker is the co-founder and CEO of Stage Water, a canned water brand built for the live music community. He is also a longtime tour manager for Dierks Bentley and has spent decades behind the scenes of the music industry leading teams, solving problems, and keeping major tours moving.In this episode of The Stephan Hogan Podcast, Chris Thacker shares how Stage Water launched, how the company became the official water of CMA Fest, and what most people do not understand about starting a beverage brand.We talk about the real business behind canned water, beverage distribution, co-packing, funding a startup, raising capital, giving equity to investors, building a brand with purpose, and why Stage Water gives back to the creative community.Chris also breaks down what he learned from years on the road with Dierks Bentley, how leadership changes when you are responsible for people, and why building something meaningful requires patience, risk, humility, and belief.This conversation is for entrepreneurs, founders, music industry professionals, artists, managers, creators, and anyone trying to build a business that actually stands for something.Watch more episodes of The Stephan Hogan Podcast for conversations on business, leadership, creativity, faith, ambition, failure, music, and the human stories behind success.verage Brand, Watch Thishttps://www.countrypolitannashville.comhttps://www.studiobank.com/https://stagewater.com/https://www.simonsaysnashville.com/Connect with The Stephan Hogan Podcast:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

At some point, the dream changes. Ben Montague started as a musician chasing songs, shows, and the artist life. Then he found himself driving through the night after gigs, windows down just to stay awake, so he could open his guitar shop the next morning.That was the crossroads.Today, Ben owns Carter Vintage Guitars and Norman’s Rare Guitars. But the real story is not about guitars. It is about being able to shift gears and follow a new dream. In this episode, Ben opens up about music, business, private equity, family pressure, acquiring Carter Vintage and Norman’s Rare Guitars, and the emotional cost of building something meaningful.This one is for musicians, creatives, founders, business owners, guitar lovers, and anyone who knows they may be standing at a turning point. Connect with The Stephan Hogan Podcast:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

https://www.gofundme.com/f/stephanhoganpodcastStephan sits down with Mitchell Tenpenny for a real conversation about fatherhood, grief, losing a parent, anger, therapy, phones, social media, AI, fake validation, human connection, and why live music still matters in a world full of content.Mitchell Tenpenny is known for songs like Drunk Me, Truth About You, At the End of a Bar, and his latest chapter as an artist, husband, and soon-to-be father.Mitchell Tenpenny is a multi-platinum country artist, songwriter, and performer with one of the most recognizable voices in modern country music. But this conversation goes far beyond the songs.Mitchell Tenpenny opens up about becoming a father, losing his dad, trying to be present, and the strange weight that comes with chasing something you love. He talks honestly about anxiety, performing live, protecting his voice, and the mental side of walking on stage when thousands of people are expecting you to deliver.Stephan Hogan and Mitchell Tenpenny also talk about what happens when the dream starts working. The number one songs, the pressure to keep going, the expectations, the business, and the moment the thing you love can start to feel like something you have to keep alive.At the center of the conversation is a question a lot of people eventually face:What do you do when the thing you love starts to feel heavy?Toward the end, Mitchell Tenpenny dives deeper into songwriting, Nashville, country music, why some writers get caught trying to impress other writers, and why the best songs are usually the ones that feel honest, simple, and human.Subscribe to The Stephan Hogan Podcast for more conversations with artists, songwriters, music executives, entrepreneurs, and creative leaders shaping the future of music, business, and culture.Connect with The Stephan Hogan Podcast:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

Kent Earls is one of the music executives behind the scenes helping shape the songs, songwriters, artists, and careers people are talking about in Nashville.In this episode of The Stephan Hogan Podcast, Kent Earls sits down with Stephan to talk about the business behind the hits, from his time as Executive Vice President and General Manager of Universal Music Publishing Group Nashville to becoming partner at Verse 2 Music, the publishing company built with Kane Brown in partnership with Sony Music Publishing.We talk about Ella Langley, Joybeth Taylor, Verse 2 Music, Kane Brown, Sony Music Publishing Nashville, Nashville music publishing, songwriter development, artist development, creative partnerships, and how leverage is really built in the music business.But this conversation is bigger than country music.Kent shares what artists, songwriters, creatives, entrepreneurs, executives, and decision makers need to understand about trusting your gut, owning your value, choosing the right partners, building relationships, and creating long-term leverage before the deal ever happens.This is an inside look at how high-level music executives think, how publishing companies bet on talent, and how careers are built behind the scenes in Nashville.Topics covered: Kent Earls, Ella Langley, Joybeth Taylor, Verse 2 Music, Kane Brown, Sony Music Publishing, Universal Music Publishing Group Nashville, Nashville music business, music publishing, songwriter development, artist development, music executive, country music, creative entrepreneurship, business leverage, strategic partnerships, trusting your gut, and building value.Subscribe to The Stephan Hogan Podcast for more conversations with artists, songwriters, music executives, entrepreneurs, and creative leaders shaping the future of music, business, and culture.Connect with The Stephan Hogan Podcast:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

Jake Owen has lived a lot of life since “Barefoot Blue Jean Night.”The songs. The tours. The success. The public highs. The private lows. The reinvention. And all the things people search for when they want to understand the man behind the music: Jake Owen songs, Jake Owen tour, Jake Owen music, Jake Owen age, Jake Owen married, and yes, even Barefoot Blue Jean Night lyrics.But this conversation is about the part you do not always see.It is about what happens when bitterness starts taking up space in your life. When success does not heal what you thought it would. When the music business gives you so much of what you prayed for, but you still have to decide what kind of man you are going to become.In this episode of The Stephan Hogan Podcast, Jake Owen talks about letting go, staying grounded, faith, fatherhood, fame, country music, and learning how to stop carrying things that only make life heavier.From “Anywhere With You” and “Beachin’” to “Best Thing Since Backroads,” Jake has built the kind of career most artists dream about.But 20 years after fame, the real story might not be the hits.It might be the healing.Connect with The Stephan Hogan Podcast:Subscribe for more blueprints on creative wealth.https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

After a career at the summit of the music industry, most recently as the Global Head of Country Music at Apple, Michael Bryan reached a definitive conclusion: scaling without soul is a race to the bottom.In this masterclass on creative discipline and longevity, Michael reveals the Southern Drift manifesto, a blueprint for leaders and creators who want to build empires that last 40 years, not 40 seconds.If you care about ownership, taste, and protecting your upside in a world obsessed with extraction, this conversation is your field guide.In this episode, we break down:* Why Michael walked away from one of the most influential roles in music* What Apple taught him about restraint, integrity, and the long game* Why algorithms cannot replace taste, intuition, and human curation* How artists and leaders can protect their creative leverage in a culture built for speed* What it takes to build something meaningful, high trust, and built to lastConnect with The Stephan Hogan Podcast:Subscribe for more blueprints on creative wealth.https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

The Truth About Music Royalties, Creator Funding, and Long-Term Careers | Alex HeicheAlex Heiche sees the creative business from a rare vantage point.As the founder of Sound Royalties, he works with songwriters, artists, producers, and creators at the intersection of money, ownership, pressure, and long-term career building.Founded in 2014, Sound Royalties is the world’s leading specialty finance company for the global creative industries, providing funding solutions to music professionals, YouTube creators, and TV/Film professionals, without risking ownership of their work.The company works with thousands of rightsholders across over 30 countries and growing, offering core products of royalty financing, tour financing, YouTube financing and, most recently, TV production financing.Sound Royalties closed a record-breaking year in 2025, with $135 million in funded contracts distributed directly to creators. In this conversation, we talk about how creators can access funding without giving up ownership, why so many artists make short-term money decisions that carry long-term consequences, what separates hype from real career building, and how money, fear, ambition, and creativity all collide in the music business.We also get into publishing deals, distribution, catalogs, leverage, streaming royalties, YouTube monetization, financial literacy for creatives, and why the best careers are usually built by people who keep going without losing belief in what they are making.This is a real conversation about ownership, risk, faith, family, endurance, and the hidden financial side of the creative life. If you care about songwriting, music publishing, royalty advances, creator funding, intellectual property, YouTube monetization, Nashville, artist development, financial freedom for creatives, and building something that lasts, this one is for you.#AlexHeiche #SoundRoyalties #MusicPublishing #Royalties #Songwriting #MusicBusiness #Nashville #ArtistDevelopment #YouTubeMonetization #IntellectualPropertyConnect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

Rusty Gaston sees the music business from a rare vantage point.In this conversation, we talk about what really makes songs connect, why the best careers are built on more than hype, and what happens when somebody who came from the independent world steps into one of the most powerful roles in Nashville publishing.This is a real conversation about the heart behind the business. If you care about songwriting, country music, Nashville, publishing, artist careers, intellectual property, music business strategy, the creative process, and the part of the music business most people never get to see, this one is for you.#RustyGaston #SonyMusicPublishing #SonyMusicPublishingNashville #Songwriting #MusicPublishing #Nashville #CountryMusic #MusicBusiness #HitSongs #songwriters Connect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

James Shotwell, founder of Country Minute, breaks down how songs actually go viral in today’s music industry, what artists and labels are really paying for, and how influencer marketing is shaping country music.Country Minute is one of the fastest-growing platforms in country music, reaching millions of fans every month through TikTok, Instagram, and short-form content that drives music discovery.James explains:◼️How songs go viral on TikTok, Instagram, and streaming platforms◼️The real role of influencers in music marketing and promotion◼️How record labels use content to break artists in 2026◼️Why attention is the most valuable currency in the music business◼️How to grow an audience and build a platform from zeroConnect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

In this episode of The Stephan Hogan Podcast, Stephan Hogan sits down with one of the most respected musicians in the Nashville music industry, Charlie Worsham.Charlie is a singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist whose career spans bluegrass, country, and Americana. He made his Grand Ole Opry debut at just 12 years old and has since become widely known in Nashville as a true musician’s musician. His work appears on records with artists including Luke Combs, Dierks Bentley, Vince Gill, Eric Church, Carrie Underwood, Kacey Musgraves, Riley Green, Ernest, and Lainey Wilson, and he was named 2024 CMA Musician of the Year and a two-time ACM Acoustic Guitar Player of the Year. Charlie also recently played acoustic guitar and mandolin on Ella Langley’s new record, including the song “Choosin’ Texas.” But beyond the awards and studio credits, this conversation reveals the deeper story behind the musician.Charlie opens up about mentorship, faith, fatherhood, and what it means to build a meaningful life in music while staying grounded as a husband and dad. From lessons learned from Vince Gill and Dierks Bentley, to navigating the Nashville music industry after spending 12 years signed to Warner Music Nashville, Charlie shares the wisdom that comes from playing the long game.Stephan and Charlie discuss:• growing up playing bluegrass and making his Grand Ole Opry debut as a kid• the mentors who shaped his career and character• balancing music, family life, and fatherhood• the philosophy of playing fewer notes and making better music• leaving a major label to become an independent artistCharlie also shares details about his upcoming music, including his new single “They Never Do,” releasing March 20 and featuring Lainey Wilson. The song will also appear as the closing track in the upcoming Netflix documentary on Lainey Wilson.In addition to releasing new music independently, Charlie will also be playing guitar with Vince Gill this year, continuing a musical friendship and mentorship that has shaped his career.This episode is a thoughtful conversation about craft, character, faith, family, and the long road of building a life in music.https://www.charlieworsham.com/https://www.instagram.com/charlieworshamSubscribe for more conversations with artists, songwriters, and cultural leaders.Connect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. ProductionWardrobe provided by https://www.simonsaysnashville.com/

In this raw and deeply personal conversation, Bear Rinehart of Needtobreathe sits down with Stephan Hogan to talk about songwriting, faith, trauma, creativity, and the future of music.The interview comes as Needtobreathe prepares to release their 10th studio album, The Long Surrender, on March 27, 2026 via MCA. Produced by acclaimed producer Dave Cobb, the 12-track album marks a return to raw, personal songwriting from frontman Bear Rinehart. The project includes the single “Highlands” and explores themes of surrender, faith, identity, and personal growth.In this conversation, Bear opens up about the experiences that shaped the writing behind The Long Surrender, including therapy, faith, family, and the inner voice that often tells artists they are not good enough. He also talks about the beauty of imperfection in music, the pressure artists face in the modern industry, and how real songs come from lived experiences rather than formulas.This episode offers a rare look inside the mind of one of modern rock’s most thoughtful songwriters as Needtobreathe enters a new chapter of music.Topics discussed include:• Needtobreathe’s upcoming album The Long Surrender (2026)• Writing songs for the new record and returning to personal storytelling• Working with producer Dave Cobb• The new single “Highlands”• Bear Rinehart on faith, trauma, and personal transformation• The creative process behind meaningful songwriting• Why imperfection is essential in music• The pressures of the modern music industry• AI, creativity, and the future of art• Balancing touring life with family and fatherhoodIf you're a fan of Needtobreathe, Bear Rinehart, songwriting, or conversations about creativity and faith, this episode dives deep into the stories behind the music.Subscribe for more conversations with artists, songwriters, and cultural leaders.Connect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

https://www.simonsaysnashville.com/https://30aroasters.com/What does “darkness” actually mean when you are living in it, not writing poetry about it?In this episode of The Stephan Hogan Podcast, Canaan Smith opens up about grief, faith, anxiety, and the seasons that make you feel lost. He talks about losing his brother, the pressure that hit after a Number 1, and the day he walked into Mercury Records executive Mike Dungan’s office to ask to be released from his record deal even after the label had invested heavily.We also get into what real strength looks like, why poorly timed advice can do damage, and why some songs should not “wrap it up with a bow.”Canaan and New Medicine share the story behind their new song “Dark Place” (out January 27, 2026) and why it is built to feel like companionship, not a quick fix.Most listeners are not subscribed. If you enjoy conversations like this, subscribing is the biggest free way to support.Connect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

What does a Number 1 song in China actually mean in 2026, and how is it different from a U.S. radio “Number 1”? Nashville songwriter and producer Mark Siegel breaks down his real-world experience landing a Billboard China chart-topper with Lay Zhang (EXO), including how China’s music economy is still heavily download and sales-based, how platforms like QQ Music and NetEase function, and why “units sold” can move at a pace that feels impossible in the U.S. We get into the truth about mechanical royalties overseas, why collection can be confusing without the right subpublisher, and what Mark learned working with a UMG-affiliated admin team to protect his songwriter copyright and publishing.This conversation goes deeper than headlines. Mark explains how K-pop, C-pop, and M-pop fan culture fuels massive first-week sales, how an English version can outperform a translated version, and what it feels like to watch 80,000 people in an arena sing a song that started as a piano-vocal demo in a hotel room. We also talk about the business model behind modern songwriting careers, why the “middle class” of music has collapsed, and how creators can build sustainable income through multiple lanes like production, artist development, sync licensing, and high-paying film trailers.If you are a songwriter, producer, independent artist, music business student, or creator trying to understand global music markets, royalty collection, publishing administration, and how to think beyond Nashville radio, this episode is a masterclass. It is also a reminder that the most powerful wins are not always plaques. Sometimes it is the moment your song becomes bigger than you.Keywords: Mark Siegel, Lay Zhang, EXO, K-pop songwriter, C-pop, M-pop, Billboard China, QQ Music, NetEase, mechanical royalties, publishing, subpublishing, UMG, Outestry, sync licensing, film trailers, trailerized remixes, music industry business, songwriter royalties, Nashville songwriting, global music market.Most listeners are not subscribed. If you enjoy conversations like this, subscribing is the biggest free way to support.Connect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

49 Winchester frontman Isaac Gibson joins The Stephan Hogan Podcast for a full 49 Winchester interview covering the band’s current tour schedule, including dates with Tim McGraw and Eric Church.This conversation explores how 49 Winchester grew from an Appalachian garage band to supporting major arena tours across North America.I49 Winchester lead singer Isaac Gibson sits down for an in-depth interview about the band’s rapid rise, authentic songwriting approach, and expanding national touring presence.49 Winchester is currently gaining major exposure through large-scale touring, including select dates on Tim McGraw’s 2026 North American summer tour as well as arena appearances alongside Eric Church. These opportunities are putting the band in front of some of the largest country audiences in the world.In this 49 Winchester interview, Isaac Gibson discusses:• The band’s journey from Appalachia to national touring stages• What it takes to sustain growth without chasing industry trends• Recording music that prioritizes authenticity over perfection• The impact of major tour support slots• Building a loyal fanbase through live performance• Why people are disconnecting from smartphones• The return of “human” sounding music• Recording live takes and embracing imperfection• Building a career without chasing industry validation• Touring with major artists and global audience growth• The story behind 49 Winchester’s rise• Faith, identity, and purpose in the creative processAbout Isaac Gibson & 49 Winchester:Isaac Gibson is the frontman of 49 Winchester, a Virginia-based country and Americana band known for raw, authentic songwriting and powerful live performances. The band has toured internationally and continues gaining momentum following recent releases and major touring opportunities.https://www.49winchester.com/Most listeners are not subscribed. If you enjoy conversations like this, subscribing is the biggest free way to support.Connect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

Jelly Roll’s Grammy speech struck a nerve because it spoke about faith, redemption, and telling the truth about where you come from. Those same values run through the music on Beautifully Broken, the album that just won Best Contemporary Country Album.In this episode, I sit down with Steph Jones, the songwriter behind “Born Again” and “Hear Me Out” on Jelly Roll’s Grammy winning album, to talk about who she is and how that kind of honesty and conviction actually gets built long before it shows up on a Grammy stage.Steph is also a co writer on “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter and has written songs recorded by Selena Gomez, BLACKPINK, Kelsea Ballerini, Shania Twain, Little Big Town, and more.This conversation is not a recap of Jelly Roll’s speech.It is a deeper look at the inner work, faith, grief, and creative integrity that make moments like that possible.If Jelly Roll’s speech resonated with you, this episode will too.Connect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

Priscilla Block opens up about the mental, physical, and spiritual “come to Jesus moment” that changed everything.In this conversation, Priscilla shares what burnout really looked like behind the scenes, how nonstop touring and pressure left her feeling empty, and the moment she realized she stopped recognizing herself. Sitting on a beach in New Zealand, exhausted and overwhelmed, she experienced a turning point that led her to reset her life from the inside out.We talk about what rebuilding actually looks like, not in theory, but in daily life. From small habits like walking and discipline, to faith, gratitude, and protecting your peace, Priscilla breaks down how she rebuilt her confidence and clarity.This episode covers:• Burnout and identity loss in the music industry• The mental, physical, and spiritual reset that changed her path• Faith, gratitude, and returning to her roots• 75 Hard and why discipline became self-respect• The pressure to stay relevant on social media• Redefining success beyond hits and numbers• Health, growth, and preparing for the next season of lifeThis conversation is for artists, creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone who has ever felt burned out while chasing something they love.If this episode resonates with you, subscribing is the simplest way to support the show. It costs nothing and it helps more than you think.Connect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production#PriscillaBlock #PriscillaBlockInterview #PriscillaBlockPodcast #CountryMusic #FemaleCountryArtist #WomenInCountry #JustAboutOverYou #MyBar #WishYouWereTheWhiskey #PMS #GoodOnYou #ThickThighs #WelcomeToTheBlockParty #CountrySongwriter #ArtistStory #MusicIndustry #MentalHealthInMusic #FaithJourney #ComeToJesusMoment #TheStephanHoganPodcast

Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOjAs5F7-dsIn this powerful clip from The Stephan Hogan Podcast, Kip Moore speaks directly to rising country artists about a mistake he believes is hurting new careers. He warns young artists to stop copying the styles of major stars like Morgan Wallen and Zach Bryan. He explains why imitation never leads to long term success and why building your own identity is the only path that lasts. Kip Moore talks openly about what he is seeing inside country music today. He describes the pressure artists feel to chase whatever is selling at the moment and why that approach leaves them stuck as short lived trends instead of original voices. He uses Morgan Wallen’s explosive popularity and the wave of artists trying to match Zach Bryan’s sound to show how fast these trends disappear. In this clip Kip Moore explains:• Why copying the current biggest sellers will never work in your favor• How audiences can instantly hear when something is not authentic• Why chasing trends leaves you behind the moment the original artist evolves• The importance of originality for anyone who wants a real career in country musicIf you are an independent artist, songwriter, producer, or a country music fan who wants to understand the current landscape, this conversation is essential. Kip Moore brings real insight into what is and is not working in Nashville right now, and why the future belongs to the artists who sound like themselves.Connect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production

In this episode of The Stephan Hogan Podcast, Stephan sits down with Mark Rucker for a deep conversation about royalties, income streams, ownership, and the financial blind spots most people never learn about.Mark Rucker is a senior leader at SoundExchange, the organization responsible for collecting and distributing digital performance royalties to artists and rights holders. His work focuses on helping creators understand where their money actually comes from and how ownership and royalties function in the modern music economy.Mark breaks down why so many talented people struggle financially, not because they lack skill, but because they were never taught how money actually works behind the scenes. From royalties and recurring income to the difference between earned income and owned income, this conversation exposes how misunderstanding cash flow keeps people stuck even when they appear successful on the surface.Together, Stephan and Mark discuss:Why royalties are misunderstood and underutilizedThe difference between one-time paychecks and long-term income streamsHow ownership changes everythingWhy most people work harder but make less over timeThe mental shift required to think in assets instead of hoursThis episode is essential listening for creatives, musicians, songwriters, entrepreneurs, and independent builders who want to stop trading time for money and start thinking about sustainability, leverage, and freedom.If you’re searching for podcasts about royalties, passive income, music business income, creator economy, ownership, financial literacy for creatives, or multiple income streams, this conversation with Mark Rucker will give you clarity most people never receive.No hype. No shortcuts. Just an honest discussion about money, responsibility, and building something that lasts.Connect with us:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced by Stephan HoganA Mavericks Media Co. Production

Today, Bear Rinehart of NEEDTOBREATHE sits down with me for an honest, unguarded conversation. No talking points. Just heart.We get into:Writing alone vs. co-writing — why some songs need one voice, one story.Art over algorithms — keeping the human edge in an AI world.Faith, therapy, and healing old wounds — rebuilding identity, naming core beliefs, and choosing surrender daily.Sobriety on tour — boredom, balance, and why the show is the easy part.Fatherhood & leadership — raising boys, leading a band, and staying grounded when everyone’s watching.The new era — gospel-leaning songs, working fast with Dave Cobb, and chasing truth over format.Longevity — what keeps NEEDTOBREATHE fans coming back after five No.1 albums and sold-out tours.We also talk Red Clay Strays, John Mayer, why imperfect recordings can hit harder, and the story behind “Mama Loves Me.” Bear shares how morning writes changed his process, how demos shaped the band, and why the goal isn’t to “top the old stuff”—it’s to tell the truth now.If this episode encouraged you, share it. Text it to a friend. Post a clip. It helps a ton.Connect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production#BearRinehart #NEEDTOBREATHE #Needtobreathe #MamaLovesMe #RedClayStrays #Songwriting #Songwriter #SongwritingTips #CoWriting #SoloWriting #ArtistInterview #MusicPodcast #Nashville #Americana #GospelInfluence #DaveCobb #TourLife #LifeOnTour #Sobriety #SobrietyJourney #Therapy #MentalHealth #FaithAndMusic #ArtistAuthenticity #RealTalk #CreativeProcess #StudioLife #NewMusic #WhereYouCallHome #MusicIndustry

Multi-platinum country artist Kip Moore joins The Stephan Hogan Podcast for an unfiltered conversation about truth, disillusionment, and the pursuit of authenticity in modern music. From his breakout hit “Somethin’ ’Bout a Truck” on Up All Night to his latest single “The Crown” and album Solitary Tracks, Kip opens up about walking away from the industry system — even while bringing in millions for his label, UMG.Ignored by executives and feeling disconnected from the machine he helped fuel, Kip made the choice to leave. He talks candidly about how that decision revealed who his real friends were, how many drifted when the business ties broke, and why he’s never been more at peace or more creatively fulfilled.Across albums like Wild Ones, Slowheart, Wild World, Damn Love, and Solitary Tracks, Kip Moore has built a devoted international following — from sold-out arenas in Australia and the UK to stadiums in South Africa — by refusing to chase trends or social media validation. Instead, he’s doubled down on honesty, faith, and the kind of connection that only comes through real art.In this episode, we talk about:• Why mystery, honesty, and risk matter more than ever• Walking away from UMG after being ignored despite massive success• How the people he thought were close drifted when he left the label• The creative and spiritual freedom that followed• Finding balance through solitude, faith, and surfing• Turning down a multi 6 figure half time show to protect his integrity• How he built global success without US radio support or TikTok fame• Why the UK, Australia, and South Africa embraced his music• The deeper message of Solitary TracksA raw, honest look at what success really costs — and what’s waiting on the other side when you choose truth over comfort.Connect with us:https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhoganhttps://www.instagram.com/stephanhoganhttps://www.facebook.com/stephanhoganEmail: [email protected] in Nashville, TNProduced: Stephan HoganMavericks Media Co. Production#KipMoore #TheStephanHoganPodcast #TheCrown #SolitaryTracks #CountryMusic #Songwriting #UMG #UpAllNight #WildOnes #Slowheart #WildWorld #DamnLove #Authenticity #Faith #MusicIndustry #Australia #UK #SouthAfrica