Have you ever found yourself at a crossroads, where the path to a healthier life seems daunting yet profoundly necessary? Join us in an intimate and candid conversation with special guest Zach Caywood as we uncover the transformative power of sobriety and rediscover the joy of music. As we reminisce about the concerts that shaped our youth, from the electrifying riffs of Killswitch Engage to the emotional resonance of A Day to Remember, Zach and I share our journey of overcoming addiction and reigniting our passion for the electric guitar. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of personal growth, where music becomes not just a soundtrack but a lifeline.

Zach opens up about a pivotal Thanksgiving that marked the beginning of his sober journey, setting the stage for a renewed focus on creative expression. We delve into how music legends like Randy Rhoads and Dimebag Darrell have inspired a unique blend of melodies that speak to both mellow and hardcore audiences, with a focus on embracing the beauty of "happy mistakes" in the creative process. This journey isn't just about music; it's about finding new purpose and the therapeutic nature of artistic endeavors.

We also explore how the digital age affects personal values, with social media often challenging our sense of integrity. In a world that sometimes prioritizes materialism, we emphasize the importance of staying true to oneself. Join us as we share the unexpected ways pets can influence sobriety, the calming ritual of coffee, and the ongoing battle with anxiety and temptation. Connect with Zach on YouTube and Instagram to follow his inspiring journey, and discover how our shared experiences can provide a sense of community and support for those navigating similar challenges.

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What does it take to return to the music scene after a hiatus in your 30s? We kick off this episode with the Zachary Tomfeld, the voice of Phantom Threat, as he opens up about his journey from growing up in Letts, Iowa, to rediscovering his passion for music. Zachary shares his eclectic musical influences, from the gritty beats of East Coast hip-hop to the raw power of death metal and metalcore, and how Phantom Threat’s explosive live performances bring these sounds to life. It's an intimate look at balancing family, life, and an undying devotion to music, bound to inspire both musicians and fans alike.

Shifting gears, we dive into the heart of Midwest traditions with a spirited conversation on deer hunting and the beloved Ragbrai cycling event. Relive the nostalgia of using muzzleloaders and Mossberg shotguns while swapping hunting stories that capture the essence of the rugged Midwest. We then pedal into Ragbrai, detailing the camaraderie, logistical challenges, and cultural richness of this annual midwest event. Whether it's the physical grind of the ride or the communal spirit felt in the small towns, this segment paints a vivid picture of outdoor adventure and local culture.

Finally, we celebrate the vibrant Iowa metal scene with tales from recent performances and festivals. From the unique recording processes to the analog versus digital debate, we share memorable moments from gigs at Iowa Metal Underground and spotlight the camaraderie among bands like Frontal Assault, Ill Omen, and Fungal Mass. We express our excitement for upcoming shows and festivals, capturing the essence of the underground metal community and its unbreakable spirit. This episode is a testament to the power of music and the bonds it creates.

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Ever wondered how cigars and whiskey can elevate your experiences? Join us for a reunion at the Legendary Luke Cigar Club, where we unearth the art of fresh-rolled cigars and their aging journey. From reminiscing over iconic smokes to savoring the complex flavors of Sherried Scotches, our deep dive into Glenfiddich, Abalores, and Tamdew will leave your taste buds tingling. We wrap up with an exhilarating note on the rare Dalmore Cigar Malt and our reflections on the recent D6 Wrestling event that had everyone buzzing.

Step into the electric world of indie wrestling with us as we recount the high-energy atmosphere of local shows like D6. Feel the intimacy of the ring as we celebrate standout performances from wrestlers Mickey Midas, Diego, and the reigning D6 female champ. Alongside the thrills, we indulge in some post-match Glenfiddich tastings, blending action-packed discussions with refined sips. Expect post-show reflections filled with camaraderie, making this chapter a perfect blend for wrestling and whiskey aficionados.

Switching gears, get ready to laugh as we share our wild karaoke tales and anticipation for upcoming music gigs. From humorous anecdotes about metal renditions of children's songs to the excitement of catching bands like Twist the Blade and Phantom Threat, this musical segment is nothing short of vibrant. We even spotlight the quirky Pit Lord, known for their metal songs about barbecuing, complete with their unique merchandise. Wrap up your listen with our light-hearted reflections and a toast to future musical adventures!

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What if you could connect intimately with your favorite wrestlers, experiencing firsthand the energy and excitement of live, indie wrestling shows? Our latest episode brings you right into the action with Kaleb, Cece, Seth, and Travis, as we chat with the incredible family behind D6 Wrestling in Macomb, Illinois. Learn about their emotional journey from California to Macomb, the poignant reason behind the birth of their wrestling promotion, and the challenges they've faced in building a community of dedicated fans.

Feel the raw energy and excitement of local wrestling matches as we discuss the joy of recognizing wrestlers by their entrance music and the unforgettable moments of surprise appearances. We dive into the unique fan-wrestler interactions that make indie shows special, the significance of merchandise sales in supporting your favorite athletes, and the heartwarming experiences that create lifelong wrestling enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer, you'll discover the magic that makes live wrestling an experience like no other.

Get the inside scoop on the expansion and partnerships that are shaping the future of D6 Wrestling. From the inspiring stories of wrestlers like Mickey Midas and Christian Rose to the upcoming ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Chamber of Commerce, we cover the exciting milestones and logistical challenges of running a wrestling promotion. Plus, hear the quirky behind-the-scenes tales that add a unique flair to D6 Wrestling, including the oddities of setting up in a historic building and the vital role of social media in fan engagement. Tune in for an episode packed with heart, humor, and a deep love for the wrestling community.

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What happens when a passionate musician decides to support the local music scene? Meet Jordan Schmelzer, also known as Jordan Anthony on Facebook, as he embarks on an ambitious journey with QC Booking to inject new life into the Quad Cities' music culture. From his time playing in bands like Phantom Threat and Crimson Clean Sweep to his endeavors in Texas, Jordan's story is packed with determination and a vision to create unforgettable live music experiences.

The pandemic may have silenced stages, but the local music scene is roaring back, thanks to dedicated individuals like Jordan and other community champions like wanting to see it continue and thrive. Hear how different groups are playing a crucial role in this resurgence. Jordan also sheds light on his experiences in concert lighting and his commitment to being at every possible show to support the scene. Take a trip down memory lane with mentions of Seven Dust concerts in Clinton, Iowa, and look forward to the exciting expansion plans for Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. This episode is a must-listen for any band eager to join the vibrant Midwest music community.

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What happens when a solo acoustic artist teams up with friends to create a dynamic band, only to find themselves bonding with local law enforcement over noise complaints? That’s just one of the unexpected turns in the musical journey of the John Pesci Show band. We sit down with the guys to uncover their story, from humble beginnings to memorable performances like Timberfest. Adam also shares the unique challenges and rewards of taking over his family bar, adding another layer to their multifaceted journey.

Ever wondered how psychedelic reggae, blues, and hip-hop can blend into a unique sound? Each band member reveals their musical roots and influences, painting a vivid picture of their eclectic style. Humor and camaraderie take center stage as they recount stories from their high school days and collaborations within the local music scene. Josh, their bass player, gets a special mention for his pivotal role in their musical evolution, and we hear touching anecdotes about family influences that have shaped their artistic paths.

But it’s not all serious business; expect plenty of laughs and spontaneous moments. From playful banter about playing bass and eating tacos to a surprise kazoo performance, this episode captures the essence of the band's fun-loving spirit. Johnny’s heartfelt song "Shoes" and the band's upcoming show at the VFW in Bushnell highlight their knack for connecting with audiences. Join us for an unforgettable ride through the blues, reggae, rock, and jam band influences that make the John PC Show band truly one-of-a-kind.

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When the relentless push of life's challenges meets the resilience of a Midwest musician, what unfolds is a testament to the healing power of creativity. Today's episode welcomes a seasoned artist who shares his journey from the early raw days to the unexpected thrill of viral rise and success. We navigate the choppy waters of music promotion, touring upheavals due to COVID-19, and the shift to studio work that's redefined success in the digital age. Duke serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating how an artist's career can pivot on a moment's notice—from a trickle of daily streams to a deluge of recognition.

Taking a step back from the stage lights, our conversation turns inward, reflecting on the complexities of life, music, and fatherhood. We find solace in the Midwestern roots and explore how the blue-collar ethos infuses our guest's music with authenticity and grit. The personal stories shared reveal the profound ways our upbringing and the silent legacies of father figures shape who we become. It's a deep dive into our identities, embracing the roles we play off-stage—be it as musicians, fathers, or the conduits of introspection that guide our creativity.

The episode rounds out with an honest look at the creative process, the restorative nature of jiu-jitsu, and the unifying force of community, whether through shared experiences in music or the collective spirit of sport. From the heartfelt tribute to linemen in the aftermath of storms to the therapeutic escape of martial arts, we uncover how our passions, whether on canvas, in song, or on the mat, fuel our continuous search for personal growth. Join us for a candid session that's as much about striking chords on a guitar as it is about striking balance in life.

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Remember when you could sit with friends, sharing stories and laughter without a screen in sight? That's where our podcast journey began, and boy, has it blossomed! We've weathered job transitions and relocations, but through it all, our passion for conversation and community has only amplified. This episode takes you through the heart of our evolving adventure, from the gargae to the move to a new location. Along the way, we've navigated the murky waters of small victories that have kept our business pulsing with life.

Picture the 5 am clang of weights and the 8 am buzz of camaraderie at our local gym – it's the backdrop to tales of a community that's more family than membership. We share a slice of this vibrant life, where septuagenarians and school kids alike find their strength. Balancing manufacturing chaos, family, and fitness isn't just our reality; it's a testament to our collective resilience.

As we wrap our fitness-soaked dialogue, we welcome Korby from MacTown, whose humor and down-to-earth advice remind us that the journey to personal health is as unique as our DNA. He's the guy that makes you laugh about a salad drowning in ranch, while we're sneaking in a snicker protein bar for balance. From tales of youth camps crafting future sports stars to the impact of personalized coaching, we leave no weight unturned. So, lace up your sneakers and join us in a conversation that celebrates not just fitness, but the power of tailored coaching, community, and laughter – one rep, one chuckle, one story at a time.

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