UncleDad Talks

Episode 135: Mill Valley Music Festival 2024 (FT/ Eric Lindell, Rebirth Brass Brand, Caitlin Mattison, and more!)

In this riveting episode, we pull back the curtain on the world of music and theatre with our distinguished guest, Cody Craven. A man of many talents, Cody's journey is filled with fascinating stories of family, music festivals, theatrical performances, and surprising encounters with industry stalwarts like actor Bruce Willis.
He delves into his experience in the Mountain Play Association's production of the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, "Kinky Boots", providing a unique glimpse into its historical background and development. Craven also reveals details about his upcoming music album and his future aspirations in the entertainment field. Finally, Lucas Chandler steps in to share crucial details on securing tickets for Kinky Boots. Strap in for a mesmerizing blend of music, theatre and tales of personal ambition.
"A Harmonious Twist: Eric Lindell's Artistic Journey and Musical Enlightenment"
Join us in this enlightening episode as we converse with the charismatic Eric Lindell. We embark on a captivating journey as we delve into the beautiful interconnection between local art, music, and self-exploration. Lindell shares the inspirational roots of his musical journey, his untold stories, and explains his unique fusion of New Orleans beats and Northern California harmonies.
Accompanied by significant figures Samantha and Jack, Lindell discusses their influence on his music and personal life. We also explore his songwriting process, underscoring the transformative capacity of art in creating shared experiences. This episode is a delightful reflection on self-evolution, life, and the joy of music.
"Colorful Canvases: Caitlin Matteson on Illustrating for the Music Industry"
Welcome to a fascinating discussion with renowned illustrator Caitlin Matteson. Matteson takes us through her rewarding career path, sharing insights into her professional illustrations for musicians, band posters, album covers, T-shirts, and more. Her prodigious talent has also extended to markets including motorcycle companies and makeup brands.
With her work being showcased at significant festivals like Outside Lands, this episode offers a rich exploration into her illustrative journey. Alongside light-hearted banter, Matteson's profound love for music and its influence on her artworks forms the backbone of our dialogue. A treat for art enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

Episode 134.5: UncleDad and Just Mike celebrate 4 years of UDT!

In this milestone episode, we honor four years of insightful dialogues and unmatched episodes of UncleDad Talks. We kick things off by expressing our gratitude to our sponsor, Skyline Smart Energy, and highlighting the advantages of opting for sustainable energy solutions to combat California's soaring energy costs. Skyline is offering a unique deal – a year of free Brinks Home Security with every solar installation.
Our reflective journey navigates through episodes brimming with humor, unexpected revelations, and treasured recollections. Each anecdote, from the mystifying quantum healer interview to missed engagements with famous guests, speaks to the wild and wondrous nature of this podcast.
We also reminisce over our memorable moments sharing intimate narratives with Eddie Furlong, Sadat X and many more. Recollecting these instances, we are thrilled for forthcoming captivating dialogues. As part of our continuous innovation, trivia games are expected to be a new addition to our platform.
In this episode, we look back with nostalgia, but more importantly, we look forward with optimism for a future packed with more engrossing narratives. Our goal remains steadfast – to make Uncle Dad Talks a podcast that stands out for its quirkiness and unconventional charm.
In part two of this episode, we talk about our unique guests from influential musicians to beloved mentors who have left an indelible impact on our lives. Recollecting our conversations with John from System of a Down or the unforgettable episode at the Bar Bridge store in Oakland, each has been a valued memory.
Looking forward, we have set sights on expanding the podcast. We discuss potential Kickstarter campaigns and the inclusion of more on-location interviews. We urge our listeners to be an integral part of our journey, by interacting with us and helping sustain the podcast's lively community.
As we conclude the episode, we extend sincere gratitude to everyone who has helped us in this journey. We appreciate the constant support from our listeners and guests who have helped shape Uncle Dad Talks. While the journey has been a roller-coaster, the experiences have been rewarding and we look forward to creating more unforgettable moments in the times ahead.

Episode 134: Talk w/ Tennis and Shoe Icon Stan Smith and Emmy Award winning filmmaker Danny Lee

In this compelling episode of "Uncle Dad Talks", journey along as we explore the life of legendary tennis player and shoe game icon, Stan Smith. Joining the conversation is filmmaker Danny Lee, known for his captivating documentary "Who is Stan Smith?", providing a behind-the-scenes look into the life of an iconic personality resonating with every generation.From insightful revelations about Stan Smith's impactful tennis career to his accomplished life beyond the court, this episode leaves no stone unturned. Guest host Tuna from "First in Tuna" podcast further enhances the experience, reflecting on the evolution of documentary films, the complexities of fandoms, and the astounding variety that podcasts and stories encompass.Whether you're a staunch Stan Smith shoe enthusiast, a tennis aficionado, or a passionate storyteller, this in-depth conversation is bound to leave you intrigued. Embark on an exhilarating journey and discover firsthand the answer to the tantalizing question - Who really is Stan Smith?A deep dive into Stan's past and present unveils aspects of his life that are as moving as they are motivating. From his revolutionary efforts in player unionization to his heartfelt philosophy about never retiring, listeners get to hear personal anecdotes about Stan's life and his unwavering connection to the sport.Accompanying this exploration, filmmaker Danny Lee enthralls listeners with a first-hand account of the challenges and rewards of capturing Stan’s life on film. Many delightful surprises unravel like the involvement of Lebron James's production company in this project, underscoring how Danny's passion and respect for Stan's journey shines in every frame of the documentary.Immerse yourself in the inspiring journey of a true sports icon and the filmmaker who had the honor of weaving his story into a deeply engaging documentary. Tune in for an episode full of inspiration, enlightenment, and a refreshing dive into sports history.

Episode 133: Talk w/ Filmmaker Jordan Bryon and Co-Director/Journalist Monica Villamizar

In this spellbinding episode, we delve into the extraordinary life of Jordan Bryan, an Australian transgender filmmaker. Jordan shares his personal journey and unique experiences which have shaped his self-identity and approach to storytelling. He discusses the challenges and anxieties associated with living dual identities, and his unexpected comfort among a Taliban unit in Afghanistan compared to a queer bar in Sydney. The conversation takes a turn as Rick from Sigma Duocast steps in as this week's guest host. The pair share light-hearted banter about their shared love for gaming and their dependence on energy drinks to power through long hours. They then shift focus to their Podcast Pals program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at aiding fellow podcasters in increasing their visibility and reach.The main feature of the episode is an interview with Jordan Bryan as he narrates the process of creating his poignant feature-length documentary titled "Transition". The film offers a profound and highly personal glimpse into Afghanistan's rich cultural landscape. "Transition" intertwines Jordan's gender transition journey with his experiences in Afghanistan, making it an emotionally charged piece of art that challenges perceptions, biases and the complexities of human identity.In the latter part of the episode, our guest speakers delve deeper into their experiences creating this thought-provoking documentary, the effects it has had on viewers, the essence of storytelling and the critical role journalism plays. They highlight the profound effects their documentary venture had on their perception and their deepened empathy for the individuals featured in the film. They also touch upon the ethical considerations involved in documentary production and the immense personal sacrifices made by conflict reporters, terming them ‘the real heroes’.Wrapping up, the speakers share updates on the life of one of their documentary characters and express empathy for refugees forced to leave their homeland under difficult circumstances. They also encourage more people to watch their impactful documentary available on various digital streaming platforms. This episode serves as a moving commentary on the profound impacts of storytelling and documentary filmmaking, and the critical role of journalism in modern society.

Episode 132: Talk w/ Marcus Strother ( President and Ceo of Mentor California)

Welcome to another insightful episode of Uncle Dad Talks, where we sit down with Marcus Strother, the President and CEO of Mentor California. Dedicate this hour to understanding the essential role of mentorship in shaping all aspects of an individual's life, from instilling resilience to fostering talent and personal growth.
Engage in a heartwarming discussion about mentorship's transformative power, underscored by personal experiences of our hosts, Uncle Dad and Mike, as well as our special guest, Marcus Strother. Unpack his journey with Mentor California, an organization dedicated to enhancing mentoring across the state. Marcus's unique narrative marries his passion for music, education, and community service – a life path significantly affected by an impactful mentor from his eighth-grade.
In the course of the conversation, gain invaluable insights into the initiatives designed to positively influence life trajectories, especially for young people navigating through challenging situations. Listen to an acute evaluation of the education system, the necessity of incorporating love and listening in mentoring relationships, and the ideal way to foster a holistic learning environment that goes beyond performance indicators.
Appreciate the paramount importance of self-care in maintaining a high level of performance and explore various ways to incorporate it into daily routines. As we surmise, this episode encourages you to embody the spirit of lifelong mentorship - a journey to enduring relationships and enhanced human development.
Further in the discussion, Marcus's affinity to Sacramento, his family's undying support for the Chicago Bulls, and his work with NBA teams offer an interesting backdrop set against their work at Mentor California. Through high-profile partnerships and community outreach teams, engaging in initiatives such as the Mentoring Girls of Color Restoration Retreat, Marcus's experiences have served to reinforce the belief in the colossal potential of mentorship programs. As we sign off, we encourage more people to step into mentors' shoes and shape the future.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram: @UncleDadTalks

Episode 131: Talk w/ Emmy Award winning writer David Mandel (VEEP, Clerks: Animated Series, Eurotrip)

Dive into an enlightening conversation with Dave Mandel, renowned writer and director known for his work on 'Seinfeld' and 'Curb Your Enthusiasm', in this episode of Uncle Dad Talks. Hosts UncleDad and Mike Hampton uncover the secrets behind Dave's successful career and his new podcast.
Walk down memory lane with Dave as he reminisces about his time on the set of the cult classic 'Euro Trip'. Engage with behind-the-scenes stories about casting and cameos, and discover why he preferred the original title, 'Ugly Americans'. Gain insights into Dave's journey through the world of comedy and learn about his current podcast, 'Stuff Dreams Are Made Of'.
Explore the ties between comedy and historical events and how they spark reflection. Learn about comedic portrayal of complex issues, such as Nazis, and the challenges in delivering delicate humor. Hear about Dave's experiences working with Michael J. Fox on Curb Your Enthusiasm and how physical comedy balances amusing antics with sobering realities.
Experience Dave's career starting from 'Seinfeld' to his current podcasting endeavor. Learn how 'Seinfeld' has influenced single-camera sitcoms and how these changes impacted Veep's success. Enjoy the storytelling approach, character dynamics and memorable moments from his journey in the entertainment industry.
Delve into the world of television production, from writing scripts to actor encounters, and into the fascinating world of memorabilia and prop collecting. Finally, get insights into the podcast 'The Stuff Dreams are Made Of' and the joy of discussing props, prop auctions, and celebrity encounters.
Tune in to Uncle Dad talks for this enlightening episode that combines lifestyle, creativity, and comedy while offering valuable insights.

Episode 130: On location, Asheville, NC! (Ft talk w/ Comedian Jeff Allen and more!)

In the latest episode of Uncle Dad Talks, hosts Uncle Dad and Mike Hampton embark on a thrilling journey to Asheville, North Carolina. There, they have heartfelt and insightful conversations with legendary clean comedian, Jeff Allen, and trombonist dynamo, Jacob Bruner. Their exploration of the charming city also leads them to the historic Biltmore Village Inn, where they engage in a captivating discussion with the innkeeper, Monica.The hosts dig deep into the world of comedy with Jeff Allen, discussing its overall impact on individuals and society. Jeff not only shares his journey through comedy, but also talks about its nuances within relationship dynamics, providing a comedic take on life with his wife. He also sheds light on the current cultural climate surrounding comedy and his enduring love for his craft.Get ready to groove as Jacob Bruner, a remarkable trombonist from the Empire Strikes Brass, introduces you to the vibrant jazz and funk scenes of Asheville. His passion for collaboration and love for music paints a lively image of Asheville's music culture. Along with insights into Jacob's musical journey, the episode also carries engaging snippets of captivating music.The episode wraps up with a mesmerizing spectacle of Asheville’s rich history, courtesy of the Biltmore Village Inn. Monica, the seasoned innkeeper, takes listeners through the inn's intriguing past, its beautifully decorated rooms, and unique guest experiences. An intriguing piece of history added with a dash of the paranormal makes the Biltmore Village Inn a must-visit!The hosts also share their exploration of exciting places like the Asheville Pinball Museum, Cultivated Cocktails Distillery, and River Arts District, relishing Asheville's local cuisine along the way. This thrilling adventure-packed episode is sure to inspire listeners to embark on their own journey of discovery.

UDT Special Report: Santa Barbara International Film Festival 2024 FT/Rick of Sigma DuoCast

In this engaging episode, we introduce Sexy Rick from Sigma Duocast, the latest addition to our team serving as a junior reporter and film critic. Providing high-quality reviews from the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Rick uncovers a mix of films, from feature-length to shorts. Delve into a journey full of emotion, social commentary, personal triumph and cheeky feline antics as we explore the deeper meanings behind each film. We also take a detour to the quaint village of Kinmount, Ontario, Canada to explore the Highlands Cinema, a charming old-school theater reflecting the evolution and history of cinema itself.From a father-daughter relationship and an immigrant family's struggle to a disco superstar's journey of resilience, Rick provides an in-depth analysis of shorts from the film festival. Using a unique five-point system, he reviews various elements of the films, sharing his unique personal insights and perspectives. We conclude our tour of the festival with a humorous look at first-time pet ownership through 'Savvy the Cat'—a short film that is sure to charm all cat lovers.Moving on from the festival, we explore the story of Keith Stata and his awe-inspiring dedication to preserving the art of cinema. Besotted with movies, Keith took things into his own hands and built his own theater, Highlands Cinema, showcasing a collection of classic film memorabilia as a testament to cinema's transformation over the decades. Despite the switch to digital and the challenges spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, Keith committed to keeping the traditional movie experience alive, serving as a beacon of nostalgia and history.Join us as we discover the intricacies of film, the zealous devotion of film buffs, and the impact of resilience and passion on the captivating world of cinema.

Episode 128: Talk w/ Grammy winning musician, Keith Frazier(Rebirth Brass Brand)

In this thrilling episode of UncleDad Talks, journey into the energetic world of music with the co-founding member of Grammy-winning Rebirth Brass Band, Keith Frazier. Get exclusive insights into the world of brass music and the band's extraordinary path to fame. This episode, sponsored by Skyline Smart Energy, is punctuated with rhythm, history, and exciting anecdotes about life on the road.
Step into the wonderful world of music with Keith Frazier, the legendary bass drummer, as he recounts memorable band interactions and significant band member changes. The conversation segues into the importance of artist independence and how the band navigated a changing industry amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
Uncover fascinating stories about performing at the White House and endorsements from former President Obama. Delve into the creation of famous tracks and learn about the band's founder's heartfelt exit. Celebrate the magic of their spontaneous performances and their pride in featuring in the popular series 'Treme'. Finally, explore the vibrant culture of New Orleans and the constant party atmosphere around Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest.
This enlightening episode is guaranteed to captivate you, as it encapsulates the journey, challenges and indomitable spirit of Keith Frazier and the melodious Rebirth Brass Band.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram: @UncleDadTalks // @MikeHamptonArt

Episode 127: Talk w/Grammy Nominated Musician, Eric Gordon (Galactic)

In this electrifying episode of Uncle Dad Talks, hear a passionate conversation with special guest and Grammy-nominated trumpet player, Eric Gordon. Journey down Mardi Gras Lane as we explore the vibrant culture of New Orleans jazz, recount the struggles post-Katrina, and discuss the unparalleled power of music in uniting communities. Listen now.
Beyond his notable career as a member of the chart-topping band Galactic and the Grammy award-winning Rebirth Brass Band, Eric shares his deep-rooted love for the city of New Orleans, the importance of remembering one's roots, and how music played a vital role in the city's rebirth after Katrina. This episode offers a fascinating insight into the rich traditions of Mardi Gras Indians, the indomitable resilience of the city's inhabitants, and the engaging world of brass bands.
Experience a mesmerizing journey through the vibrant cultures, deep-rooted musical history, and eclectic lifestyle of New Orleans. Learn about the formation and growth of the celebrated ensemble, Galactic, the invigorating spirit of Mardi Gras, and the power of unity in diversity that characterizes the city's music scene - all unfolding through the eyes of Eric Gordon, a notable figure in this realm.
Delve deep into the culture of Mardi Gras Indian tribes, the artful rhythm of brass bands, the symbolic significance of elaborate costumes, and the sparkling diversity of New Orleans. From growing up in a city awash in vibrant tunes to joining the iconic Rebirth brass band, Eric's personal narrative brings the spirit of New Orleans alive. The episode ends with an intimate glimpse of Eric's off-stage life and his enthusiastic engagement with fans across various social platforms.
For anyone interested in the rich tapestry of New Orleans culture, the power of music, or those simply looking for an engrossing conversation that resonates with resilience, artistry and passion, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram: @UncleDadTalks // @MikeHamptonArt