Donkey Kong Cuntry
Published August 6 2025
In this episode I sit with musician Steve Wolff who shares his story into music. Beginning with his first car, an 89 Mercury Tracer that lasted a mere two weeks before his brother rolled it and totaled it. Steve always sought out music and began playing when a piano too big to move was left behind in his new home. Eventually picking up the guitar and forming the crust punk group Systems Victims. We chat about recording, tipping canoes, and his current bands Ling and The Artificial AI's. Steve also talks about the rough life of touring but still has passion for the road and the stage hasn’t waned.
Pismo Money
Published July 30 2025
Overlord of Unconventional Cookies, Witney Nielsen joins me in studio to share her unconventional path of packing up her first car a 2001 Toyota Echo and heads to California. Upon returning home to North Dakota she narrowly avoids flying off a bridge. Witney opens up about the origins of the Cookie Haus a creative space filled with vintage Pyrex, clowns, and My First Car cookies. We discuss the return of the beloved Lil Cannoli mascot, hosting a quinceañera for a Lady named Mo, and the exciting announcement of Unconventional Cookies’ nationwide shipping launch.
and starting fires.
Order some kickass cookies here
https://www.unconventionalcookies.com/
hey@unconventionalcookies.com
Ice Braker
Published July 23 2025
While in Minneapolis I sit down with bassist extraordinaire Noah Schafer a seasoned player with credits in bands like Toxic Shock Syndrome, Bonesaw, War On God, The Funeral And The Twilight, and many more. Noah and I trade chairs and reflect on our time playing music and touring together. He shares memories of his first car, a 1990 Mazda MPV, and we exchange stories about life on the road including bike wrecks, icy 360s on the interstate, and navigating the punk scene as a vegetarian. Equal parts nostalgia, noise, and near-death experiences.
Parapostal Activity
Published July 16 2025
This week on the show I'm joined by Justin Cancilliere, the radio host of ParaTruth: Reborn. Justin kicks things off by reminiscing about his first car a 1989 Toyota Corolla that met an untimely end in New Jersey. From there we discuss his journey into the world of podcasting including some of his personal paranormal experiences. We also get into some intriguing discussions about cryptids, conspiracy theories, and the pros and cons A.I. Justin opens up about his time joining Dakota Media Access and bringing his expertise to the table.
Fat Gramps
Published July 9 2025
Musician and educator James McMahon finally comes by the studio to share some stories of his beloved 1986 Pontiac Parisienne Station Wagon, complete with classic wood paneling. James reflects on the formative years that shaped his musical journey with family road trips from Idaho to North Dakota and early days of his first band Speak Easy. He opens up about how music theory unlocked a whole new world of creativity and how growing up alongside three equally musical brothers didn’t breed competition but mutual inspiration. After making the move to Bismarck he found his calling in teaching and 22 years later he’s still at it bringing a heartfelt approach to music education. We also get a glimpse into his time with local BisMan favorite Fat Dad, collaborating with his brother in The McMahon Bros, and his new project The Peace Garden Collective. Whether he's coaching tennis, performing on stage, teaching the next gen, or being a proud grandpa, James continues to create and carve out a little time for clarity and self-reflection.
Clapping With Your Arms Crossed
Published July 2 2025
Singer songwriter Mike Swenson has a gift for music and a curse for vehicles. His first car begins with a 79 Chevy pickup careening downhill after failed brakes. Then his vehicle's luck gets worse from there with blown engines, spontaneous fires, and rabbits turning his car into a snack. We vent about the agony of backing up trailers, the unpredictable highs and lows of gig life, and trace Mike’s musical roots back to a home filled with music growing up. Mike just keeps rolling with a smile, grateful for every chance he gets to share his music no matter how many vehicles he has to bury along the way.
A bit of a Time Traveler
Published June 25 2025
David Martel is a longtime friend and legendary musician who joins me in the studio for a ride through his life and career. We kick things off with a tale about his cool dorky '81 Chevy Chevette and dive deep into his roots of growing up as a farm kid in a small town where boredom was beat by pulling sleds with his car, blowing up G.I. Joes, and smashing guitars. A born entertainer, David always knew he wanted to make people laugh, think, and feel, and even got his start by making quirky home videos. David takes us through his musical evolution by sharing stories from his time with bands like Little Devious Me, Gypsy Foot, Anonymous Phenomenon, and Artificial AI's. Above all, David is driven by the desire to create something entirely his own, hoping his work will inspire others to break free and do the same.
Pod Save the King
Published June 18 2025
Darren King's '85 (½) Mercury Lynx was a perfect first car for his upright bass to ride shotgun. That Lynx caught air, caught fire, and even caused a bit of a stir at a retirement home. From a young age his dad immersed him in sports, literature, music, and culture, setting the stage for a lifelong artistic journey. After watching a documentary on R&B, funk, and soul, became enamored with the groove of the bass guitar. Darren shares stories of joining the Air Force, playing gigs across the globe, and inspiring the next gen as a music teacher.
The Word Nerd
Published June 11 2025
Singer songwriter and word nerd Sonda Sauers joins me for some laidback conversation. How very trusting of her to leave the keys to her '92 Pontiac Grand Am on a soda machine for friends to borrow. So it's easy to see how she was so warmly welcomed into the music scene after moving back to Bismarck,ND. Sonda shares some of her story of journaling since a kid, being a community organizer, and running a half-marathon. We chat about her creative alter ego, Mz Mondegreen, showing off her passion for words. Plus, we bond over our mutual love of camping and escaping humanity.
The Spudfather
Published June 4 2025
Make them a bassline they can't refuse.
Timothy 'Timo' Reed stops by the studio to catch up with me this week. A fan of history and music Timo is a bassist currently playing with Green Boots, The Swentones, and Johnny Spud. Back in Davenport Iowa Timo used his first car, a 82 Pontiac Grand LeMans to speed deliver Godfathers Pizza to Happy Joe Whitty. After relocating to North Dakota he dove headfirst into the local music scene, connecting with a vibrant community of artists who became lifelong collaborators and friends. Timo also opens up about witnessing a tragic accident in his youth and how it shaped his perspective. And we talk about his love for Devo, hosting a radio show, taking roadtrips, and how travel is the best form of education. Overall Timo is a good soul who's about lifting others up and making sure we all thrive along the way.
GreenBoots at Laughing Sun Brewing with Harsh Light Saturday June 7th. Www.facebook.com/GreenBootsInc/
The SwenTones www.Facebook.com/theswentones/
The Cowboy Poet
Published May 28 2025
In this episode, I sit down for a cup of joe and a deep conversation with my uncle D.W. Groethe a true cowboy of the arts. A ranch hand by trade and a poet singer-songwriter by calling, D.W. shares stories from a life lived off the beaten path. He may have never technically owned a car, but his first ride was a 66 Dodge van fully outfitted with a fridge, cabinets, and a bed. As lifelong musician he eventually traded in the band life for the simplicity of a single acoustic guitar going solo with his songs and stories. He opens up about the joy and grit of being a traveling musician while never chasing fame but doing what he does best. From performing at the prestigious Kennedy Center to playing small town festivals and cozy small room shows, D.W.'s journey is a testament to the power of music and poetry of a well worn road.
https://www.loc.gov/item/2021687784/
https://www.westernfolklife.org/blog/2024/2/29/leap-year-cowboy-poetry
The Flash
Published May 21 2025
This week I’m joined by Gus Lindgren the owner of Rhythm Records and we share our love for comic book fandom and music. Gus shares stories of his first car a 2005 Chevy Aveo nicknamed "The Flash" and how this lil car became the backdrop for some of his most pivotal moments. A road trip to San Diego Comic Con where he met his future wife and the inevitable wreck that led to a second Aveo "The Flash 2." We also dive into his unexpected career trajectory from a weekend news director where Will Ferrell, in full Ron Burgundy character, took over the news desk, to his musical journey playing keyboard for Boreal Gardens and Avantide, and hosting his radio show, A Musical Journey. Gus never intended to become a businessman, yet here he is running a beloved record store in town.
Avantide
https://avantideband.com/avantide-home
A Musical Journey
https://radioaccess.org/a-musical-journey/
Wild Child
Published May 14 2025
Singer-songwriter Kit Pines joins me in the studio with stories of reinvention, traveling, and rock 'n' roll. After a few too many close calls she was forced to sell her beloved New Yorker and make some major life changes. Moving in with her guitarist uncle sparked a new chapter by trading bad influences for garage band jam sessions and diving headfirst into the Bismarck music scene. We talk about her creative evolution, thrifting adventures, and the importance of trusting your gut.
Bananarama Core
Published May 7 2025
Bass player and rocker for life Dustin Geiger drove the piss out of his first car a 1991 Ford F-150 XLT Lariat. Geiger and I reminisce about years of playing gigs, recording sessions, and the raw energy of the music scene. He takes us on a trip down memory lane sharing the evolution of his early days with Perosity and the band's transformation into the powerhouse that was Omnipotent Belligerence. We also touch on his latest project, Penumbra, and their upcoming shows: Minot on Saturday May 17th w/ Avantide and June 20th. Sweat, passion, and a whole lot of stories from one of the coolest, most laid back dudes you’ll ever meet.
PENUMBRA
https://www.facebook.com/people/Penumbra-music/100092526987529/
Omnipotent Belligerence - The Power To Overcome
The Tinkerer
Published April 30 2025
Before he could even drive musician Lucas Conlon had already claimed his first ride, a 93 Chevy Blazer. It didn’t last long before he totaled it but the stories live on. In this episode we talk about ordering CDs by the cover art, growing up in a home buzzing with music, and his early obsession with instruments which carries over to his ever growing collection. Call it musical hoarding or an arsenal of gear, Lucas is all in. After a brief hiatus from drumming he's back behind the kit with the punk rock group Wasting Tape. Lucas rediscovers what he calls his true love... freedom behind the wheel.
Curse Your Enthusiasm
Published April 23 2025
Musician Andrew Larivee hits the road in his 2006 Subaru Impreza to cross the country. Born cursed but blessed with serious musical chops, Andrew opens up about his life, his love for the trombone and the local music scene. Things go from hot and steamy to a run-in with Johnny Law as we talk sackbuts (not sack butts), scabs, and deep dive into Andrew’s world.
La Petite Mort
Published April 16 2025
In this episode we ride shotgun with Stacy Sturm, the creative force behind URL Radio. She kicks things off with hilarious tales of her very first cars from a Mercury Lynx barely held together with bubble gum and shoelaces, to a 91 Toyota Tercel that tore up the desert with its killer sound system. Spoiler alert: she’s managed to wreck every car she's owned and a few belonging to friends and family too. But Stacy’s not just a demolition queen, she's an ambitious entrepreneur owning two bars, Oscar’s in Bismarck and Thomas & Moriarty’s in Mandan. She talks about the craft of mixology, sharing what makes bartending an art form. We also rewind to her earliest love of radio. Stacy's passion sparked at just four years old, spinning vinyl on a kid’s record player and pretending to host her own show. Since then she's done it all... newspaper, television, marketing/public relations, anti human trafficking work, and even a stint as Anthony Michael Hall’s assistant.
The Hippie of the Bakken
Published April 9 2025
Singer songwriter Ben Suchy looks back on his early days with deep rooted reverence. From shredding skateboards and snowboards to cruising in his ’93 Dodge Shadow and obsessing over vintage Volkswagen buses, Ben isn't a car guy per se but is quite the YouTube mechanic guy. Ben shares stories of buying and selling vehicles, getting into skirmishes, and breaking his tibia. NGL, I squirmed a little when he talks about that. Ben’s musical background began in the thick of a touring family band, but things took a turn when he got into mischief as a teen and struck a deal that led to him taking guitar lessons. Which takes him down the road in punkrock and performing in an array of eclectic bands before evolving to a one-man band. Ben Suchy hasn't slowed down and his mind is always buzzing with new songs, arriving at all hours of the night. Lastly, he shares the behind the scenes of his latest recording and release of his upcoming new album.
The Screaming Butterfly
Published April 2 2025
Musician Kelly McCormack of The Pink Slips opens up about how her journey into music began with a brutal rejection from a choir director that only fueled her passion. We take a trip down memory lane and reminisce about the good old days of playing punk bands. Kelly gets real about facing adversity when a tumor left her on crutches at a young age, an injury made permanent due to a doctor's F-up. Along the way she shares the spontaneous story of how we first crossed paths and started making music together. With heartfelt gratitude, Kelly reflects on the tight knit welcoming music scene that’s become her second family.
The Lyric Master
Published March 26 2025
Singer-songwriter Jennifer Lyn began her rebellious days behind the wheel of an 87 T-top Camaro equipped with a deer siren that was more often used to spook friends than wildlife. Building her career from the ground up, Jen started in coffee shops, learning every nuance from guitar solos to mixing, mastering, and the often overlooked business fundamentals. Leading to a collaboration with seasoned musicians to form the blues rock group Jennifer Lyn & The Groove Revival, they quickly soared to #4 on the Billboard Blues Chart. Not only is Jennifer Lyn a gifted musician with a voice that resonates raw emotion, but she’s also a savvy businesswoman who knows how to steer her career with purpose and precision.
https://jlynandthegrooverevival.com/
Have a memorable first car story or just want to reach out for more info? I'd love to hear from you! Email me at saveourscene@live.com
The Ghost Rider
Published March 19 2025
Here's a laid back and hilarious chat with musician Matt Foster, the creative force behind Penumbra, GreenBoots, Lords of Sorcery, and Inaudible Monster. Matt's 1985 Pontiac 6000 LE, complete with a disco-inspired ceiling lined with CDs, takes us on a nostalgic ride to the old days of the local concert scene. We dive into stories of road trips, camping adventures, and the wild, carefree days of being young, dumb, and full of cumbersome angst. Matt’s passion for live shows helped him build a network that would launch his career as a sought after freelance videographer and photographer.
Lords of Sorcery, GreenBoots, Penumbra and Inaudible Monster all performing on Record Store Day April 12th at Rhythm Records in Bismarck,ND with along with 20 other acts.
Have a memorable first car story or just want to reach out for more info? I'd love to hear from you! Email me at saveourscene@live.com
The Uninvited Guest
Published March 12 2025
Meet Dakotah Faye, the legit nice guy and rapper whose demo disc got hopelessly jammed in his 2004 Ford Explorer for years until its final demise. Now two years sober and more driven than ever, Dakotah is a powerhouse constantly grinding out music, booking shows, and hitting the road on tour. From being dismissed as a hip-hop artist in North Dakota to proving himself as a true musician and entrepreneur, Dakotah's journey is a testament to what can happen when you channel a little bit of delusion into relentless determination.
https://dakotahfaye.com/
Have a memorable first car story or just want to reach out for more info? I'd love to hear from you! Email me at saveourscene@live.com
NØSXY
Published March 5 2025
Computer wiz Ryan Schweitzer’s journey on four wheels began with a humble 1989 Chevy Cavalier, but it was his second car, an 83 red Cavalier station wagon, that truly left its mark. With his Ham radio call sign NØSXY emblazoned on the license plate, Ryan sparks a bit of confusion and curiosity among fellow drivers who can't help but wonder what the mysterious code means. We talk about collecting Laserdisc movies, cable access television, and performing with the bands Eat Sinking Teacups, Wicked Darling, and with his spoken word poetry.
The Traveling Minstrel
Published February 26 2025
Singer, songwriter, and guitarist Richard Torrance takes us on a thrilling ride through his incredible 60+ years in the music industry. In 1965, Richard cruised into the scene in his parents' sleek 55 Black Cadillac, hitting up drive-in theaters and Big Boy burger joints before leveling up to a Porsche. From his early days of rocking out in The Tradewinds to touring with the Canadian group Gettysbyrg Address, Richard's musical journey is nothing short of legendary. After making the bold move to LA, he signed with Shelter Records, riding the highs and lows until its untimely demise, before joining forces with Capitol Records. With vivid stories of his time as a recording artist, collaborating with legendary musicians, and unforgettable live performances, Richard shares what it truly means to live and breathe music. And now, he's back in the spotlight, promoting his exciting new album alongside Jennifer Lynn and the Groove Revival.
El Mejor
Published February 19 2025
Kameran Ali of The Funky Arabs takes us back to the early days of forming bands with friends. Kam takes an epic road trip to Denver for Lollapalooza 96 and we end up just BSing about our shared love for concerts despite the skyrocketing ticket prices. Stories of unexpected run ins with musicians, grabbing KFC with Vanilla Ice, and launching 40s at a group of rowdy rednecks. Kameran also opens up about his fascinating journey, born in a refugee camp in Iran, and how that shaped his path.
Trouser Snake
Published February 12 2025
Ben Weisinger takes us back to when he got his license at 14 and drove off in his grandmother’s 84 Honda Accord, complete with a rusted out floorboard where you could see the road beneath him. A snake decides to hitch a ride ending up in his underwear while he's barreling down the highway. We also dive into the golden days of our roommate shenanigans and Ben explains how cruising Main was the Facebook of the 90s.
Hill On Wheels
Published February 5 2025
Join Tom Hill as he shares the brief but unforgettable story of his 1984 Honda Civic. This 5-speed hatchback was totaled in a head on collision just three months after he got it leaving him with a broken neck. We dive into working as food delivery drivers and the risks of joy riding motorcycles. Along the way we veer off into nostalgic memories of high school, playing in bands, and the friendships that shaped his journey.
Badassmobile
Published January 29 2025
Meet Tayler Billings. Former bassist of The Vexed and the current lead guitarist and vocalist for Wasting Tape. When Tayler's parents gift him a 1989 Buick Riviera to share with his sister, he does what any older brother would do and claims it for himself. With a trash filled interior and a hood featuring custom painted boobs, he is geared up to tackle every icy bridge in his path.
The Shoopmobile
Published January 22 2025
Nolyn Falcon’s 1990 Ford Escort GT endures a few wild trips to California. Decked out with a Shoop decal, a trusty tape deck, and the funk of a cooler gone rancid after a brutal summer explosion, this car has seen it all. Nolyn ushers us through the experience of recording his debut album on a 4-track, powering through sleep-deprived nights in a snowstorm, and sharing the stage with none other than Vanilla Ice.
Pairs well with a complimentary soundtrack of Led Zeppelin, Pantera, Nirvana, The Beatles, Sound Garden, Mozart
Music soothes the Savage
Published January 15 2025
After countless performances and extensive tours across the nation, musician Danny Savage of Mooncats takes us through his journey from the gritty days of breaking down in his beat-up '90s Chevy Suburban to cruising cross country in his trusty 2001 Pontiac Bonneville. A master of rock, grunge, and bluegrass, Danny has not only captured hearts with his eclectic sound but also stunned audiences with his music videos, paddle fishing adventures, and even ventriloquism. With a talent that knows no bounds, Danny proves time and again that he's a true renaissance man of the music world.
Rocky Mountain Nigh
Published January 8 2025
Jon Quijano recalls his 1989 Chevy Cavalier wagon as having no floor heat, windows that won’t stay up, and a cassette player that devours tapes. He shares that his passion for drumming began after hearing a Jimi Hendrix song in a car commercial during a Channel 1 news broadcast. During a road trip, a wrong turn left Jon and his brother lost in Nebraska.
Pairs well with a complimentary soundtrack of Nirvana, The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Sound Garden
Country Cruising
Published January 1 2025
In this episode, my buddy Kyle Haman reflects on the ultimate taste of freedom - hitting the open road and cruising through neighboring small towns. With a trunk full of beer, the music cranked up, and nothing but blue skies ahead, Kyle takes us along for the ride. It’s country cruising at its finest, with stories of spontaneous adventures, wild nights, and the kind of carefree spirit that comes with small town roaming. Grab a cold one and join us for a journey that’s all about living for the moment.
The Catfish Alliance
Published December 25 2024
In this episode, my friend Pedro Pizarro dives into the wild, reckless days of his first car. From spray-painting a cop car (yep, you read that right) to almost getting shot at, Pedro’s Tallahassee adventures were filled with mischief, close calls, and unforgettable moments. Time well spent making mixtapes, making windshield washer squirt guns and making out with girls, all while keeping an eye out for the lurking alligators.
The Green Hornet
Published December 18 2024
In this no-holds-barred episode, my friend and fellow podcaster Cole Weisz pulls up to share his unfiltered wisdom and stories from the driver's seat of a 78 Plymouth Volare station wagon. From no second dates to not even glancing while reversing, Cole’s experiences in this classic ride are as legendary as his “no F’s given” approach to life.
Fearless and Roving In a Small Town
Published December 11 2024
Musician Richard Loewen somehow small town's his way to getting a license. Another Topaz make it's presence heard all around town till he upgrades to a 98 Chevy Blazer. Shenanigan's ensue.
"Breaker breaker 1-9"
Published December 3 2024
In this nostalgic trip down memory lane, my friend and former bassist Tony takes us back to the early days of his grunge youth and it all begins with a 1963 Ford pickup truck. From getting lost on winding gravel roads to late-night CB radio hide-and-seek games, and of course, cruising for chicken nuggets, Tony's wild adventures in the pre-band days set the stage for a life of music and mischief. That's a 10-4 good buddy.
Thunderchicken
Published November 27 2024
14 states in 14 days. Musician Roger Nordquist flips a coin to find what he's looking for on a solo road trip in this 2001 odyssey over Sept 11th. From an inherited 78 Thunderbird to a 91 Mercury Cougar, it’s a journey that’s about more than just the destinations. It’s about what drives us, both on the road and in life.
Fast-Ditch Effort
Published November 19 2024
Buckle up, because this week we’re taking a ride down memory lane with Nathan Engel - the graphic designer behind the logo and birther to the podcast idea. But today, he’s not talking design; he’s revving the engine on his legendary 1978 Chevy Impala, the vehicle that wasn’t just a car, but a vessel of teenage mayhem. Questionable decisions and shenanigans ensue.
Pairs well with a mixtape of Eminem, Korn, NIN, Snoop Dogg, Dr Dre
Frog Fueled Fender Bender
Published November 19 2024
My friend Mandie Haman drops by to recount her adventures in her 1987 Mercury Topaz. Fender benders, frogs, mixtapes, and the stink of cloves. Get in the trunk losers! We're going down memory lane. Cheers!
Pairs well with a mixtape of Heart and Fleetwood Mac
The Turdmobile
Published November 19 2024
In today's episode, guitarist and my friend, Adam Abrahamson takes a trip down memory lane as he reminisces about his 1978 Dodge Colt - affectionately known as The Turdmobile. From pushing it when it wouldn't reverse to the loss of his lil homies, Adam's legendary tales remind me of the days car bras and bug splatters existed.
Pairs well with a mixtape of The Offspring, Greenday, The Humpers, 90's skater punk
Trailer for MY FIRST CAR
Coming November 2024