The Bonecast

What does it take to be truly “fit to play”? Is it about hours spent practicing, or is there more to performing at your best? Part 1 of this two-part episode explores the intersection of music, fitness, and entrepreneurship. Gracie chats with Caroline Juster about her journey balancing CrossFit with launching her own business, and with Vicki Garcia about her experiences with the Boston Pops Orchestra and how she first discovered the power exercise.   Learn more about The Bonecast: ⁠https://www.thebonecast.com⁠ Support the show: ⁠https://www.thebonecast.com/donate⁠

What happens when you break your trombone slide? In this episode of The Bonecast, we dive into one of every trombone player's worst nightmares: a damaged slide. Whether it’s a minor ding or a full-on disaster, knowing what to do (and what not to do) can make all the difference.   Special guest Mick Geronimo joins us to share real repair stories, talk about instrument repair school, and tell a funny story about a famous trumpet player. If you’ve ever had a damaged slide or just want to be ready for anything, this episode is for you.   Learn more about The Bonecast: ⁠https://www.thebonecast.com⁠ Support the show: ⁠https://www.thebonecast.com/donate⁠

In Part 2 of this two-part episode, Gracie talks with Vaughn Weister about the journey that shaped his life in music. They discuss his early days in Mount Vernon, his time at the Navy School of Music, performing with the Woody Herman Orchestra, and the mentors who helped him along the way.

For decades, Vaughn Wiester and the Famous Jazz Orchestra have been a cornerstone of the jazz scene in Columbus. Known for their commitment to the ’50s big band tradition and their trombone-playing bandleader, the ensemble has kept swing music alive for generations of musicians and listeners. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Gracie explores Vaughn and the band’s impact on the Columbus jazz community. Lucas Ruetz and Kyson Orick discuss how the band has influenced their emerging careers, while Jeff Banyots and Matt Ellis share what it’s like to be part of the trombone section in this iconic ensemble.

Why are trombone players, and audiences around the world, so obsessed with Maurice Ravel’s Boléro? In the debut episode of The Bonecast, Gracie sits down with Dr. Tony Weikel, Vlad Petrachev, and Bob Parker to explore the history, cultural impact, and performance challenges behind one of the most iconic and infamously demanding trombone excerpts in the orchestral repertoire.

Welcome to The Bonecast, a podcast sharing stories about the trombone with the people who love it most. Season 1 features 6 amazing episodes, covering a wide variety of topics. Follow now and don’t miss our first episode, dropping March 5, 2026!