Ever wondered how an actor makes the leap from the Hollywood hills to the heart of country music? Our guest, Richard Banker, takes us on his incredible journey from starring in NBC’s "Love Bites" to serenading audiences in Texas honky-tonks. Richard shares his childhood moments in South Dakota, his bold move to Los Angeles, and the fascinating transformation that saw him step off the screen and onto the stage. This episode is a treasure trove of stories, from his early acting roles to his pivot into the music scene, and how the pandemic became a turning point for his solo career.

Picture this: a man with just $300 and a guitar decides to leave Los Angeles and try his luck in Texas. Richard Banker recounts his adventures as he navigated small towns, sought out gigs, and eventually set up an eight-show tour across North Texas. We explore the vibrant Texas music scene through Richard's eyes, hearing about legendary venues like the Broken Spoke in Austin and historic locations in Fort Worth and San Antonio. Through his unique "cosmic country" style, he blends 70s country with rock influences, creating a sound that's both nostalgic and refreshingly original.

In the final part of our conversation, Richard opens up about his songwriting process and the inspirations behind his music. You'll get an insider look at his latest song, "Beetles in the Morning, Stones at Night," and learn how his musical tastes have evolved over the years. From the gritty tales of his early audition days in Los Angeles to his ongoing passion for acting, Richard provides a heartfelt reflection on his artistic journey. Tune in to hear about his plans for a new 12-song album, his work with Grassroots Promotions in Nashville, and the delightful spontaneity that fuels his creativity.

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What if musical genres were as fluid as emotions? Join us in an inspiring conversation with the multi-talented Rebecca Correa, as she uncovers the magic behind her latest single "Rose-Colored Glasses" and her eclectic musical journey. From her childhood in Dartmouth, Massachusetts to her vibrant performances along the Northeast coast and the iconic music scene of Nashville, Rebecca takes us on a captivating tour of her life's musical tapestry. We explore her summer gigs on islands like Martha's Vineyard and her plans to return to Nashville for an intense writing and recording season.

Rebecca's story is a tapestry of diverse influences and early passions. She reflects on her music, which blends folk, rock, Americana, pop, R&B, soul, and country, and the impact of her varied musical upbringing. Rebecca offers a fascinating take on the blurring lines between genres, with a nod to Post Malone's successful crossover into country music. We also dive into her roots: starting with piano, transitioning to guitar, and eventually collaborating with Grammy winner Keb' Mo'. Her journey is a testament to the power of early songwriting as an emotional outlet and the significant role Nashville connections have played in her career.

Beyond the chords and melodies, we uncover Rebecca's life off the stage. She shares her passion for running, highlighting the communal spirit of both the music and running communities. With twelve half marathons under her belt, including the Nashville Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon, Rebecca draws striking parallels between these two worlds. We touch on her experiences recording in prestigious studios and her love for local sports, particularly Nashville Predators games. Our conversation wraps up with a powerful note on female representation in the music industry, celebrating Rebecca's determination and positivity as she continues to make waves with "Rose Colored Glasses.

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What if one month could transform your understanding of a vibrant culture? Join us as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the dynamic Fanny Villarreal, a beloved Latino leader in Central New York. This episode is an enlightening journey through the rich tapestry of Hispanic and Latino contributions, set against the backdrop of the independence days of several Central American countries. Fanny shares her personal anecdotes which highlight the beautiful cultural exchanges within our community.

Over her 33 years in Central New York, Fanny has made a significant impact, particularly through her work at a local radio station now celebrating its 31st anniversary. We discuss how Hispanic culture has enriched mainstream American culture, likening it to a vibrant, diverse salad. Fanny clears up common misconceptions about Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day, and the terms Hispanic and Latino. She passionately talks about the importance of non-Hispanic participation in Hispanic Heritage Month, fostering a deeper cultural appreciation and understanding.

In the final segment, we celebrate the infectious energy of Hispanic music and dance, showing how they bring unity and joy to community gatherings. Fanny details her role in educating others about Latino cultures through her radio show, Nosotros Radio, which features community events, music, and spiritual well-being segments. As we wrap up, Fanny shares her gratitude for the opportunities she's received and her hopes of reconnecting with her roots in Peru. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the diverse and vibrant Hispanic community in Syracuse and beyond.

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