Best Heidi Hedquist/ Luke Poling Podcasts (2024)

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Rock n Roll Grad School #183 Marillion 33:49

6h ago33:49

33:49

Marillion is one of the important bands in prog-rock and, they prove it yet again with their latest live album, An Hour Before It's Dark. Recorded at the band's annual weekend, the record shows the band at the peak of their power. We talked with keyboardist Mark Kelly about the making of setlists, the joys of performing live and whether or not he e…

1
Rock n Roll Grad School #181 Noel on whether there's More To Life Than Dancing 42:27

2d ago42:27

42:27

Listeners know how we feel about the band Sparks and we had a rare opportunity that we wanted to share with everyone we've ever met. You may not have heard of Noel, but if you listen to this show, you've definitely heard us sing the praises of two people who wrote and produced a record for her. Ron and Russell Mael from Sparks made "Is There More T…

1
Rock n Roll Grad School #182 Joanne Shaw Taylor 32:15

7d ago32:15

32:15

If you're looking for quality songwriting with impassioned singing and guitar playing, look no further than Joanne Shaw Taylor. Her most recent record, Heavy Soul, is available now. For more information you can check out her website, or follow her on Facebook.By Heidi Hedquist/Luke Poling

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Why? Episode 305- Marqueetown 33:10

9d ago33:10

33:10

Everyone has a moment where they can try to do something special for those around them. For Bernie Rosendahl, it was working to rescue and restore an important part of history in Marquette, Michigan. And the new film, Marqueetown tells of Bernie's quest and why it's so special. We talked with filmmakers Joe Beyer and Jordan Anderson on the hows and…

1
Rock n Roll Grad School #181 Noel on whether there's More To Life Than Dancing 42:27

14d ago42:27

42:27

You may not have heard of Noel, but if you listen to this show, you've definitely heard us sing the praises of two people who wrote and produced a record for her. Ron and Russell Mael from Sparks made "Is There More To Life Than Dancing?" for Noel shortly after completing their "No. 1 Song in Heaven" album. Noel's record is more of the same great d…

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Why? Epsiode 304- Corn Hole Champion Rosie Streker 26:31

16d ago26:31

26:31

Rosie Streker is a force of nature. Going from a career as a teacher, Rosie is onto her next chapter in life- Corn Hole champion. (Three times, might we add.) In the middle of the season, Rosie took the time to talk with us about her career and offer a few tips for the next time you find yourself picking up a beanbag. For more information, you can …

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Rock n Roll Grad School #180 Robert Jon & the Wreck 31:51

22d ago31:51

31:51

If you’re looking for some good rock music, look no further than Robert Jon and the Wreck. Their newest record, “Red Moon Rising,” is out now. It’s a fun record that promises an exciting live show. For more information and to find out when they are playing near you, check out their website and follow them on Facebook. Plus, we see the Surfrajettes …

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Why? Episode 303- Andrew Shaffer 37:45

23d ago37:45

37:45

When we last talked with Andrew Shaffer, he was talking about his series of mysteries starring Joe Biden and Barack Obama. Now, Andrew's taking his twisted sort of genius to the next logical step- children's books. "The Secret Pet" (no spoilers, please) is a great gift for any child, or just to leave out on your coffee table and worry visitors. "Th…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #179 Bullets & Octane 42:53

29d ago42:53

42:53

Hard rock band Bullets and Octane are survivors. For the past 25+ years, they've been playing their brand of hard rock and touring regularly, including collaborations with Paige Hamilton from Helmet and Gilby Clarke from Guns n Roses. The band has been regularly releasing singles for the past 6 months, so, what comes next? We talked with lead singe…

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Why? Episode 302- The Forest County Bigfoot Festival 26:59

1M ago26:59

26:59

What better reason to get a huge group of people together other than to celebrate and hunt Bigfoot? That's what they do every year in Forest County, Pennsylvania and the festival is bringing large numbers of people to this small town. Not interested in hunting? Don't worry, there's more than enough to keep you busy even if you aren't tracking the e…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #178- The db's 27:23

1M ago27:23

27:23

Here's a fun fact that we (and likely most db's fans) didn't know- their debut record has never been available on vinyl in the US. Thankfully, that wrong will be righted when "Stands for DeciBels" comes out on vinyl on June 6th. We talked with drummer Will Rigby about revisiting the record that started it all. (And, is there more material in the wi…

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Why? Episode 301- Jewelry Maker Kimberly Charron 35:22

1M ago35:22

35:22

Our show is all about passions and, talking with Kim Charron, you instantly get a sense of her passion. Kim is a jewelry maker and she walks us through how she turned pro and all the work that goes into creating a unique, memorable and wearable work of art. And if that's not enough, we also talk about Billy Possum!…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #177 Metal Legend David Ellefson 29:07

1M ago29:07

29:07

Metal fans know David Ellefson from his work with Megadeth and his current band, Kings of Thrash. For the rest of you, you're in for a treat. We talked with David about touring the world, how to stay young and what he's learned from revisiting songs he wrote early on in his career. David and the Kings of Thrash are heading out on the road this summ…

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Why? Episode 300- Cellos & Metallica 30:19

1M ago30:19

30:19

Maybe you're closed minded and don't think cellos and the music of Metallica go together. Well, the folks who make up Apocalyptica, the all-cello quartet who first came to fame with their all-Metallica covers album are back at it with their newest release- a vol. 2 of Metallica songs. And this time they're even joined on one track by bassist Robert…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #176 Blacklite District 32:10

2M ago32:10

32:10

This week, we sit down with Kyle Pfeiffer, better known to his fans as Blacklite District. He's gained popularity by working with video game creators and other fans on-line, creating a much more immersive and lasting relationship with his music. His current tour starts at an earlier time and includes time after the gig for everyone to hang out and …

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Why? Epsiode 299- Famous Last Words season two is coming! 10:36

2M ago10:36

10:36

You think we're just lounging around in robes, enjoying the nice weather? Think again, buster. We're in the podcast salt mines, making content. In that spirit, we thought we'd give you a sneak preview of what we've been up to- making season 2 of our show Famous Last Words. Hope you enjoy it. (And there's soon to be more where that came from!)…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #175 Nick Sabia 35:24

2M ago35:24

35:24

Nick Sabia is a songwriter, singer, musician, engineer... basically, his life is made up of music. And, really, we're all the richer for it. His new song, Back East, is out now. (And don't worry, there's more where that came from.) For more information, you can check out Nick's website, or you can follow him on Instagram. Plus, updates on one of ou…

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Why? Episode 298- Celebrating Earth Day and "Think!" with Sheri Miller 42:29

2M ago42:29

42:29

Yes, Earth Day was a week or so ago, but, really, shouldn't every day be Earth Day? (We're sure we've heard that somewhere before...) No matter what day it is, it's a good time to talk with music star and children's author Sheri Miller. Along with her mother, Linda Miller, Sheri wrote a book, called "Honoring Our Planet- Think!" which is out now. W…

1
Rock n Roll Grad School #174 Rockie Lynne 27:15

2M ago27:15

27:15

Rockie Lynne is a talented singer, songwriter and guitarist. And, while that is impressive enough, when you hear Rockie's story, it becomes all the more fascinating. "Rockie Lynne- Where I Belong," is a new documentary film telling the story of the album and of Rockie's life. The accompanying album, Love, is more of the honest, sincere songwriting …

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Why? Episode 297- The Gathering of the Kyles 31:10

2M ago31:10

31:10

Are you named Kyle? Do you know someone named Kyle? The city of Kyle, Texas is holding their annual Gathering of the Kyles, where they will try to set the world record of the biggest gathering of people with the same name. How does one organize that many Kyles? What are the difficulties that come from that many Kyles in the same place? (And if you'…

1
Rock n Roll Grad School #173 Sheri Miller on "Think!" and Earth Day 42:29

2M ago42:29

42:29

We thought a nice way to celebrate Earth Day would be to share this conversation with music star and children's author Sheri Miller. Along with her mother, Linda Miller, Sheri wrote a book, called "Honoring Our Planet- Think!" which is out now. We talked about conservation, gratitude and so much more. "Honoring Our Planet- Think!" is available righ…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #172 Escape the Fate 33:40

2M ago33:40

33:40

We spoke with Escape the Fate’s drummer when their most recent record came out. Now, as a special edition of Out of the Shadows coming out AND a tour with the Emo Orchestra starting tonight, we talk with the band’s lead singer Craig Mabbitt. On top of getting to hear some Escape the Fate favorites, you’ll also get to hear some of the greatest hits …

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Why? Episode 296- Tornado Tours 35:51

2M ago35:51

35:51

If you're looking for an unforgettable and unique way to see tornado, why not take a tour with Twisted Sky Tours? Traveling all around Tornado Alley, Ryan and Shanda will have you chasing storms like you're Helen Hunt. We talked with them about how the tours work, how close you'll get and how astounding your slideshow will be when you get home. For…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #171 SkyDxddy 45:56

3M ago45:56

45:56

SkyDxddy has made her music career talking about hard truths and difficult subjects. But her audience has found solace in her words. Her new song, "Why Do I Stay," continues her streak of great, honest music. You can find out more about SkyDxddy on her website and you can also follow her on Instagram or on Facebook.…

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Why? Episode 295- The World Naked Bike Ride in Milwaukee 36:43

3M ago36:43

36:43

It’s become a yearly event that’s taking over- the World Naked Bike Ride. The Milwaukee, Wisconsin version of the ride is taking place June 22nd of this year. We spoke with John, the organizer of the event and the founder of We Bare All, a naturist community dedicated to holding events year round for people to enjoy while naked. For more informatio…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #170 Mama B 27:28

3M ago27:28

27:28

Her name is Mama B and she has the novel idea of making music that is not only fun for kids, but adults too. Combining her skills as a pop writer and performer, Jacq Becker has created fun, memorable and, yes, enjoyable music for everyone in the family to enjoy. Her debut album, Imaginology is out on May 12th. (Just in time for Mother’s Day.) For m…

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Why? Episode 294- Twister City Roller Derby 42:04

3M ago42:04

42:04

Roller Derby is for everyone. And if that wasn't great enough, it's making a comeback. We sat down with Cheyenne Riggs aka Professor Flex (no word the source of her professional accreditation, but it sounds badass,) to talk about the sport, and, in particular, the Twister City Derby. For more information about the league, or to find out when the ne…

1
Rock n Roll Grad School #169 Van Dyke Parks 46:56

3M ago46:56

46:56

Luke has the flu. Heidi is off gallivanting. Until they rejoin forces next week, enjoy this classic episode of Grad School, culled from deep within our vaults. The music of Van Dyke Parks has always taken you on a journey, replete with exquisite sounds and thoughtful concepts. His most recent collaboration is no different- he never met Veronica Val…

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Why? Epsiode 293- The Ramoms 33:38

3M ago33:38

33:38

Here's another fun episode from our sister show, Rock n Roll Grad School. Hey! Ho! Let’s Go! The Ramoms play punk rock music for punks of all ages. Their loving tributes to both their children and the Ramones are the type of things that make you wanna be sedated. (Or if you’re listening to the Ramoms, playdated.) For more information on the group, …

1
Rock n Roll Grad School #168 Paralandra 35:29

3M ago35:29

35:29

They've been rocking the country for 10 years and now Paralandra is releasing their second full-length album. The Body Electric is available on April 4th, wherever you get your records. We talked with lead singer Cassandra Carson about the collaboration that makes Paralandra what it is and what it's like having your dad playing lead guitar. Plus, w…

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Why? Episode 292- Escape Rooms 28:15

3M ago28:15

28:15

It's the activity that will either bring friends closer together or it will most surely tear friends apart. Of course, we're talking about escape rooms. What are the rules? What can we learn about humanity from the activity? We talked with Michael from the Milwaukee location of the popular Escape the Room. For more information, you can check out th…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #167 Johnny Manchild and the Poor Bastards 34:26

4M ago34:26

34:26

There may be no easy way to describe the music of Johnny Manchild and the Poor Bastards other than by simply saying "it's good." Their new album, Rapture Waltz is out on March 22nd. We sat down with Johnny to talk about the emotional power of music and of fandom and so much more. For more information and tour dates, you can check out their website …

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Why? Episode 291- The Naturist Research Library 39:12

4M ago39:12

39:12

The Naturist Research Library is exactly what you think it is- a library with a large catalogue, documenting the history and enjoyment of naturism. The library has one of the largest collections of such material in the world. We talked with Doug, one of the librarians about the history of the collection and, if you are allowed to be naked while res…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #166 Bettye LaVette 44:18

4M ago44:18

44:18

Bettye LaVette is a music legend. Heading back out on the road this spring, Bettye is one of the foremost interpreter of songs and is one of a kind. We got to talk with Bettye about her albums, including how she approaches her interpretations as well as her fascinating and long-running career. Her most recent album LaVette! Is available now. For mo…

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Why? Episode 290- Surf Rock with The Surfrajettes 36:35

4M ago36:35

36:35

There's a new/old sound sweeping the world and that's surf music. And leading the charge are The Surfrajettes, an all-female band leaving audiences spellbound with their musical skills. We talked with Shermy, one of the band's guitarists as they prepared to hit the road for a long stretch, playing with bands like The Electric Six and The Reverend H…

1
Rock n Roll Grad School #165 Firewind 31:52

4M ago31:52

31:52

If you’re looking for hard rock and great guitar, you need to look no further than Firewind. We talked with bandleader Gus G on the eve of the release of the new album, Stand United. Plus, we talk about Heidi’s big weekend and big summer plans, and if that isn’t enough, we extended an invitation to a particular politician to be a guest on the show …

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Why? Episode 289- The Boot Tan Festival 34:41

4M ago34:41

34:41

There is always a reason to celebrate women and women in sports. Enter the Boot Tan Fest, a yearly celebration where women have a mountain all to themselves. And to cap off the weekend's activities, there is a naked ski run for all to participate in. We talked with Jenny Verrochi , the founder of the festival about the joy and celebration contained…

1
Rock n Roll Grad School #164 The Surfrajettes 36:35

4M ago36:35

36:35

There's a new/old sound sweeping the world and that's surf music. And leading the charge are The Surfrajettes, an all-female band leaving audiences spellbound with their musical skills. We talked with Shermy, one of the band's guitarists as they prepared to hit the road for a long stretch, playing with bands like The Electric Six and The Reverend H…

1
Why? Episode 288- Corgi Racing 25:20

4M ago25:20

25:20

What better way to spend a day than watching your pet corgi race around with other dogs, having a great time? Thankfully, there's a few folks in southern California who feel the same way. What started as a day on the beach has turned into a twice-a-year gathering on the beach as well as two days of races at one of the most iconic horse racing venue…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #163 Yoko at 91! 32:08

4M ago32:08

32:08

You know how we feel about Yoko Ono 'round these parts, so when we realized her birthday was coming up, it was the perfect time to reconnect with friend of the show Madeline Bocaro, who wrote a great biography of the artist titled, In Your Mind- The Infinite Universe of Yoko Ono. So we did. We talked about the book, what Yoko thought and the overal…

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Why? Episode 287- Even more time with the Accidental Swingers 47:57

5M ago47:57

47:57

When we talked with Marina and Tristan from The Accidental Swingers podcast last year, we had a lot of stuff to cover. Thankfully, we were able to sit down for another conversation about safe words, how relationships grow and change and even what to do if you end up dating Art Garfunkel. You can find the Accidental Swingers podcast wherever you get…

1
Rock n Roll Grad School #162 New Model Army 35:54

5M ago35:54

35:54

For almost 45 years, New Model Army has been fighting the good fight and calling out wrongs where they see it. Their new album, "Unbroken" is no different. We talked with lead singer, songwriter and guitarist Justin Sullivan about the new record, why they keep on recording and how collaboration can improve everything. "Unbroken" is available wherev…

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Why? Episode 286- The American Museum of the House Cat 31:28

5M ago31:28

31:28

Ask any house cat you know- they will tell you they are most deservedly worthy of a museum. Thankfully, there's the American Museum of the House Cat, a celebration of all things cat-related. We talked with Dr Simms, the founder of the museum and Julie, the museum's director. (Museum cat Mimi was too busy to talk with us.) For more information, you …

1
Rock n Roll Grad School #161 The Ramoms 33:37

5M ago33:37

33:37

Hey! Ho! Let’s Go! The Ramoms play punk rock music for punks of all ages. Their loving tributes to both their children and the Ramones are the type of things that make you wanna be sedated. (Or if you’re listening to the Ramoms, playdated.) For more information on the group, and to learn when they’re playing near you, check out their website. Or yo…

1
Why? Episode 285- The Kennedy Assassination in LEGO 41:05

5M ago41:05

41:05

Like many people, Eric Peschke grew up fascinated by the assassination of President John F Kennedy. So, Eric did what any curious child would do; he built the entire scene in LEGO. And now that model is heading to the Sixth Floor museum in Dallas, Texas. We talked with Eric about the model, it’s building and how it grew over the years. To see the m…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #160 Broadway actor and musician Jalen Harris 32:04

5M ago32:04

32:04

Jalen Harris first came to prominence on American Idol, but that's just the beginning of his story. Since then, he's starred on Broadway in The Lion King and he's currently playing Eddie Kendricks in the touring company of Ain't Too Proud to Beg. And now he's sharing his own voice with his EP ManneKin. We talked with Jalen about his journey and how…

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Why? Episode 284- Jon Scott on Tom Petty 41:17

5M ago41:17

41:17

Jon Scott worked as a record promotion guy with a lot of great artists, but his most important, and meaningful, relationship was with Tom Petty. (In fact, Jon can be credited for breaking Petty, long after the record company gave up on him.) In his new book, Tom Petty and Me, Scott recounts a life-long friendship with one of the great American song…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #159 Jon Scott on Tom Petty 36:20

5M ago36:20

36:20

Jon Scott worked as a record promotion guy with a lot of great artists, but his most important, and meaningful, relationship was with Tom Petty. (In fact, Jon can be credited for breaking Petty, long after the record company gave up on him.) In his new book, Tom Petty and Me, Scott recounts a life-long friendship with one of the great American song…

1
Why? Episode 283- 1/6 the graphic novel 39:14

5M ago39:14

39:14

What would have happened if the January 6th insurrection had been successful? Harvard law professor Alan Jenkins co-wrote the book. It is a fascinating study of what could have happened. You can order the first two issues of 1/6: The Graphic Novel on Amazon, or you can get it on the comics' website. Alan also has a petition started on MoveOn.org, t…

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Rock n Roll Grad School #158 Darren Paltrowitz on Why David Lee Roth Matters 47:01

6M ago47:01

47:01

Wa Wa Zat?!? David Lee Roth has been a part of the public conversation for almost 50 years. And in that time, the polymath has constantly been confounding expectations. Darren Paltrowitz examines both the man and the myth in his new book, "DLR Book: How David Lee Roth Changed the World," available right now. For more information, you can follow Dar…

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Heidi Hedquist/ Luke Poling Podcasts

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