The James Wodarcyk Experimental Podcast: Recent Episodes
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I had the pleasure to chat again with Rosemary Ketchum the associate director of NAMI can candidate for representative of Ward 3 Wheeling City Council. She's always been involved in working to making the community better both professionally and personally. I think her hands on approach and open minded attitude will make her a great asset to the Council.
I had a great chat with author and friend JD Mihopulos. We discuss what it was like living abroad in Thailand before getting into a great conversation about the metaphysical and his books. How the Gods built their houses volume 1 and 2. A collection of short stories inspired by the author's dreams, visions, and life experiences which dive deep into the metaphysical ground of being itself, exploring spiritual truths, revelations, and mysteries that cannot be quantified or reproduced. Stylistically, the stories vary from third- and first-person accounts, parables, and some unexpected gimmickry for effect. Look carefully and you may even discover an underlying narrative which attempts to answer the ultimate question; what is existence?
Ian Beabout from ShedSounds recording studio and I have a great chat about music film and the pursuit to do the best work you possibly can. Ian graduated West Liberty in 2017 with a degree in music technology and public relations. Instead of taking the corporate route he struck out on his own building a studio in an 18x24 barn style shed. This episode features songs recorded at ShedSounds by Moon Man 3, Gossamer, Golden Arrow, Pleonasm, Nick Prol and Colouratura.
Wheeling has a burgeoning stand up comedy scene. I had a chance to chat with two of the comedians leading the charge. Paige Creamer stand up comedian and host of the recent First Offense Showcase and Exit Zero Entertainment promoter Jermaine Lucious has recently starting doing sets.
In this special episode Ananga Martin returns with Adrian Niles and Chad Burrall. We discuss how they came together to record her album Moon Light and Fire as well as what the experience meant to them. They treated us to several live songs during the podcast. They will have an album release party on August 17th at Towngate Theatre. Join them for a night of great music, live art and all around merriment. Listen to Moonlight and Fire online at
http://anangamartin.hearnow.com
I never knew exactly what my buddy Sean Duffy did as executive director at the WALS Foundation. So I was happy to get a chance to talk with him at his office in the beautiful First State Capital building. We had a great chat about the important and interesting work he does there. Sean is also an author of local history as well. We had a great chat about everything from the interesting and important mission of the WALS Foundation to local history and more.
Ananga was kind enough to play a song for me at the end of the podcast which you can hear by itself here.
Travis Henline returns to the podcast along with his son Oliver to discuss the planned Wheeling Heritage Center where he has been appointed as the museum project manager. More than just a museum it is envisioned as hub entrance to Wheeling. Their goal is to connect the past, present and how it will shape the future in a tangible way. To create a place that is entertaining, engaging and innovative. Travis’ knowledge and enthusiasm got me excited about the project and as you listen so will you. Tune in, get excited and support the Wheeling Heritage Center
I had the pleasure to chat with musician Ananga Martin. We discussed how she came to be a singer song writer and how she writes her songs. But more importantly she talked about the joy she get from playing music and what the experiences she shares with the musicians she plays with means to her. She was kind enough to play a song for me which you can hear at the end of our chat. Please follow her at Ananga Martin Music on Facebook, Instagram and listen to her music on Bandcamp.
I had a chance to sit down for a great conversation Rosemary Ketchum over coffee at Good Mansion Wine. Her Facebook page says she is a community advocate who is trying to change the world. As the Associate Director at NAMI Greater Wheeling and through her recent appointment to the Wheeling Human Right Commission as well as involvement in many other organizations she is actively representing the most vulnerable members of the community. Check out her FB page Ketchum Community where she helps integrate the lives of citizens, organizations and the government for through coordinated community action, cultural and economic development and grass roots collaboration.
I had a great chat with Yoga Instructor, Life Coach and owner of Ohio Valley Power Yoga Laura Hitchman. We started of discussing the challenges of starting a new business then got into the importance on leading a purposeful life. Yoga is just one of the ways Laura is helping people improve their health and wellness leading to a happier and more fulfilling life.
I set down with musician Ezra Hamilton who some may know from his band Hit Play but over the last year he’s been working very hard on original music with his band The Reletivs. Corinne Chamberlin also joins us. She does everything from marketing to music videos for the band. We talk about the excitement and challenges of taking the band and his original music to the next level. A lot of hard work, planning and a little luck has made Ezra & the Reletivs ready to go big in 2019. After the chat check out full versions of thier songs "Ain't no sense" and "Are you down".
Amber & Nate Musser not only organized this round table podcast of this eclectic group of talented Ohio Valley artists but they hosted the event and even made us all a fabulous dinner. Also in attendance were Alvin Chiu, Rachael Goodman and Josh Bommer. All the artists practice several forms of art including music, painting, graphic design and film to name a few. We discussed all aspects of living the life of an artist.
I met up with Doug Flight from Winkin Sun Holistic Hemp Farm to discuss West Virginia Hemp. An often misunderstood and under used crop hemp growing and usage is on the rise. Doug breaks down the uses of hemp and CBD oil, explains the difference between marijuana and hemp as well as the legal and scientific information about this amazing plant.
I first met Jermaine Lucious on the set of an Undependent Films production. I had been following his Facebook post for a while and I enjoyed his take current events. He met Co-host Alvin Chiu and me at Tacoholics for a chat about everything from Bill Cosby, Kayne West and Donald Trump. He filled us in on Facebook Live game he and Ron Scott organize every month at Tacoholics. Apologies for the background noise. Enjoy the episode.
Daniel Finsely from Wheeling Threads met up with my Co Host for the day Alvin Chiu at Wheeling Coffee and Spice. Wheeling Threads is a locally owned clothing company that specializes in West Virginia and Ohio Valley themed clothing. Daniel is an inspiring example of working hard to make your dream come true.
I met Amanda Gordon aka The Provocative Poet through Instagram. I was immediately taken by how honest and real her poems were. She not only wear her heart on her sleeve but puts it online where others can enjoy and even be comforted through her poetry. Our conversation out front of the Wheeling Coffee Shoppe as the sunset was inspiring and memorable. She'll be releasing a collection of poems on Amazon Kindle starting Oct. 6th check it out!
After seeing Love and Data at Wheeling Brewing I knew I had to have Amber & Nathan Musser on my podcast. This married couple use their spare time to create wonderful and unique music. They invited me to their home for dinner then we discussed everything from how they became a band to how they ended up in Wheeling. Then moved on to their musical influences and living a life as a creative person. Note: Due to technical problems the podcast is missing the 1st 5 minutes. :{
I met up with Danny Padden for a discussion about all things drifting but first we talk about the local music scene and the dance parties he and Alec Berry have been putting on in the last few months. Danny is a guy who is not afraid to try something new then works hard to make good things happen in the Ohio Valley.
Last summer I had a chance to chat with Weelunk’s Jason Koegler and Jeremy Morris along with Co-Host George Kellas. They discuss everything from the origins of Weelunk to their goal to highlight some of the people and things that make Wheeling great. Weelunk is a great resource for residence and former residence to get a more detailed look at what is going on in the Ohio Valley as well as delve into its great history. This episode is also available on George’s podcast “Wheeling On”.
I met up with Ryan Sears and Michael Krock on a Sunday morning at Brent Clyburn's home for this second episode of Coffee and Conversation. We start off discussing the recent bear sighting and Jamboree in the Hills and end up talk about AI and the future of humanity.
Recorded last summer James and George catch up with old friend and recent graduate of Emerson University film school Brian Louis Thomas aka BLT. Brian is director, writer & actor. He starred James’ first 2 films “Sterling Bannister” & “A Night at the Coffee shop”. Brian will be attending graduate school in Ireland. Brian's unique perspective is always interesting. This episode is also available on George’s podcast “Wheeling On”.
Bob Gaudio & Clare McDonald host this first episode of Coffee and Conversation in their beautiful converted school house home. My buddy Michael Krock and my best friend since the grade school Jay Timmons round out the group as we drink our Sunday coffee and chat about what’s going on in the world these days
Luthiers Corey Eller & Oland Boles join James and guest co-host Michael Krock to discuss the process of creating a guitar completely from scratch. Even if you don’t play guitar or enjoy wood working you’ll be inspired hearing these guys describe their craft. Music in this episode is by Gravelbed featuring Oland on guitar.
Robert and Libby Strong from the SMART Centre Market joined me and Co-Host George Kellas last summer. We had a great chat about some new discoveries and old scientific theories. They also talked about the origins of the Science Center and the cool things they do there. Listen to the podcast then check out the Science Center in Center Market. This episode is also available on George’s podcast “Wheeling On”.
Alvin Chiu aka Tha Mellowed Yello is a musician, artist and film maker. He and I have been friends since meeting at a philosophy discussion group years ago. We’ve had many chats about art and the life of an artist. I was really happy to have a chance to record one of those conversations.
Laura Hitchman shares how a health crisis led to a life change to go from a concierge to a yoga instructor and life coach. She recently moved back to the area and is on a mission to help people by sharing what she has learned.
Erin Yaeger and Ali Bonomo are two outstanding photographers. I had the pleasure chatting with them at River City about life’s journey and what led them to not only being photographers but back to the Ohio Valley from the many places they’ve lived over the years.
Melissa Saville & Brandon Holmes from Renew Refinishing & Restoration make their return to the podcast. Since their last appearance they’ve refocused their business more toward furniture refinishing and restoration as well as help me launch my own business. Following your dream, doing the kind of work you want to do and being self-employed isn’t always easy but it’s still a lifestyle worth pursuing.
I met up with Kyle Lewis from Healthy Vibes for You. Not only is Healthy Vibes the #1 Smoothie & Juice Bar in Wheeling but a Nutrition Club that provides positive wellness support to the community through wellness evaluations & consistent accountability to hit people wellness goals. In addition to selling some of the best tasting and healthy drinks in town they offer counseling, evaluations and group workouts free of charge. It's a great example of a business doing well and giving back to the community at the same time.
I met up with Falconers Michael Krock & Mick Brown several times before we actually got around to recording a podcast. It was hard to take time away from being out with the birds to sit inside and talk. The amount of work and level of detail these guys put into training, caring and ultimately hunting with their birds is fascinating. Listen and learn about one of the most unique and challenging forms of hunting.
From crab fishing to dog sledding in Alaska Carl Besece has had some very interesting experiences but his heart has always belonged to music and horses. Guest host Suchi Inpuan and I had a great evening chatting with Carl & Brenda at their home and learning about their journey down the path less traveled.
Sean Decker, Ryan Sears & Matt Klempa from Mr. Fancy Pants make their long awaited return to the podcast. It took some doing to get these guys back on the their thoughts on playing covers vs originals. After the second hour the conversation took a turn from music to social/political to wrap up a fun podcast on a bit of a serious note.
Jomana Lallone joins the podcast to discuss Business Psychology. She is currently getting her PhD in the field. Along with guest host Suchi Inpuan we explore behavioral economics as well as how do business leaders treat their people.
Episode 50! A year in the making. James finally get the allusive Bethany Decker & Josh Bommer for the progressive electronic band Weird Lightning together for a conversation in Starbucks. They discuss the origins of the band and what playing music has meant to them.
*Be cool. The audio issues clear up at 3:27.
James has a deep discussion with Kelcie Rauscher about she turned her life around. After years of drug addiction and even some time in a penitentiary Kelcie has over 2 years of sobriety. She’s bravely shares the details of her experience and how she stays on the right path every day
James gets together with longtime friend Grant Coleman. They discussed his early days working at the legendary 2nd Cup coffee shop and his interest in open his own coffee shop.
James meets up with Trevor Lindgren & Jason Boyd help them start their own podcast. If you’ve always wanted to start a podcast or are just curious what these guys will be up to tune in and find out.
This week James meets up with Lindsay Schooler from Happy Goat Yoga. They talk about the origins of the Happy Goat Yoga studio, the benefits of yoga and the importance of living a mindful life.
Musician Melody Rae formerly of the band Mange and current member of Bedtime joins the podcast. She and James talk about the extreme pleasure of living a life devoted to music and the heartache that lies around every turn. From the concert which first inspired her to how she taught herself how to write songs to the life on the road they cover everything.
James has chat with Calder Woolums while he was in town over the holidays. He’s a recent graduate of Lewis & Clark College where he studied Anthropology. We sat down to discuss he’s thesis paper on education and the conversation expanded to a thoughtful discussion on how best deal with some of the biggest problems facing the world and our country today.
James has a great chat with Thomas Gilson the owner/operator of The Cheese Melt. Thomas’ great food and unique menu has made his food truck one of the favorites in the Wheeling area. They discuss the pleasures and pains of starting a small business as well as the rise in popularity of food trucks.
James sits down with Historian Travis Henline. In this episode the focus is on local, regional and national Native American history.
James welcomes Historian Hal Gorby to the podcast. He is an Assistant History professor at WVU. He specializes in West Virginia and Appalachian history. In this episode of the podcast we focus on Wheeling history. How immigration, labor unions & churches helped shape the city. We also discuss the research process and how he pieces together the information. We even touch on the path the led him to become a historian.
James along with the Stars of the film Need or Greed Ron Scott Jr, Corey Jackson & Ronald Scott Sr. take a roadtrip to the International Indie Gathering Film Festival where their film they won a 1st place award.
James and special Co-Host Trevor Lindgren sit down with our favorite mutual friend Hannah Mull elaborate on the new project Black Bear Magazine which she spoke of briefly on the Arts Fest episode. From getting on board her sister Monica’s idea to create a magazine featuring local art and artist to the challenges of printing the first issue the journey has been an adventure. In addition to the magazine the topics range from the obscure to the sublime taking on some controversial topics.
James Sits down with musician and music fan Christinee Kinneer to talk about music and life as a musician. From her time in the seminal band Mange to her current band Pummelled they discuss the joys and pains of band life. They also discuss what music she's into these days. This episode features music from legendary Dayton Ohio band Brainiac.
I meet up with Sherrie McCutcheon Dunlevy at Wheeling Coffee and Spice for a great conversation. The topics range from her early career on television at WTOV 9 to her time on the radio at WKKX. Then we discuss the interesting journey to write an publish her book "How Can I Help?". Along the way we discuss how to make to most out of life. I was inspired by Sherrie and you will be too.
James and his long time friends Kyle Cunningham, William Wallace, Eddie Berardi & Robbie Kettlewell from the band Concrete TeePee finally have a chat with all members present and accounted for. The band are taking it to the next level with a bunch of new songs and a line up change. I love spending time with these guys. Grab a beer and join us for a fun conversation.
In this special roundtable episode recorded at Later Gator James talks with comic book enthusiasts Mitchell Haddad, Bennett McKinley, Trevor Lindgren and Mario Muscar. We cover everything from a quick history of the comic book to what these guys are excited about reading today. Tune in and learn why you should start reading comics too.
James joins Jeremy Larance on the campus of West Liberty University to discuss what may be the only English department to offer a degree in comics and graphic novels.
James joins Eli Henderson his crossfire buddy on the campus of West Liberty University where he helps take care of the animals in the Zoo Science Program. They discuss caring for these unique animals and how Eli choose the Zoo Science program. Then they discuss endurance racing, crossfit and healthy eating.
James joins fellow Ohio Valley Filmmakers discuss filmmaking and the upcoming local film night hosted by Straight To Hell Productions & Undependent Films on October 26th @ Marquee Cinemas at the Highlands.
James joins Bennett and Katy McKinley at their home to talk about their creative and successful business ventures.
James has a nice chat with Jessica Rine from OV Connect & the United Way at St. Clair Lanes then bowl a few games.
Updated. You can hear Eddie & Matt now, LOL. Sorry gang.
James sits down with friends Eddie Sloane & Matt Klempa for a lively discussion ranging from religion, fermentation and music to counterfeit vintage drums and halfway houses. Bethany Decker and Joshua Bommer pop in for a moment as we have drinks and conversation from the lovely courtyard at Later Alligator.
James and Sara drink a few pints with her brother Josh Fulton along with partners Kevin & Carolyn Ayers from Brew Keepers. They are brewing some of the best microbrew beer you’ll ever drink. Listen to the episode and find out why the success of their beer and business is no accident. This podcast will inspire you to try their beer and maybe even inspire you to follow your passion.
James and Co-Host Sara Fulton sit down with an amazing group of local Chefs after eating the most amazing meal. This very special roundtable episode includes Ryan Butler Executive Chef at Wheeling Brewing Company & his Sous Chef Audrey Moore, Mike Travis Executive Culinary Manager at Elmhurst, Chef Alex Hurdzan from Cilantro Latin Grill and Christopher & Angie Burress owners of Tito’s Sloppy Dogs. The group discuss the good, the bad & the ugly of being a chef. The hours might be long and the kitchen may be hot but they wouldn’t have it any other way. Although they each work in different types of kitchens one thing these people all have in common is their passion for their profession. Listen to the podcast then stop in and check out their food.
James hangs out with the multitalented Corey Roth at the Market Street Plaza. Corey is member of Brimstone Coven and Appalachia Underground, Defy the Tide and a yet to be named 4th band. They have a great conversation about the every aspect of life as a musician.
James finally gets the Undependent Films crew on the podcast. Following an interview with WTRF-7 the gang sits down to discuss the recent film festival accolades of Need or Greed and Opposite. Then get into a lively discussion on the film making process and tell some stories of fun and folly on the set.
James has a few beers with the witty, warm and always fun Cara Dailer at table in front of Later Gator on a beautiful June night. The discussion ranges from hilarious to poignant. Along with Brian Thomas Jr. the trio discusses everything from Cara’s choice to travel a path less ordinary to heavy life stuff and everything in between.
James chats with Jasmyn King about her new organization OV Partners in Peace. Recorded in the courtyard at Later Gator Jasmyn explains that while her group has been focusing on suicide prevention the larger goal is to provide a supportive community for all people in need.
James chats with Devyn Nickerson from Project Hope. In this eye opening discussion Devyn explains the many problems the homeless face and how Project Hope is helping them.
James & Co-Host Ron Scott Jr. set up shop along the waterfront at Wheeling Arts & Cultural Festival. They are joined by a potpourri of artist, artisans & vendors including Logan Schmidt, Kyle Cunningham, Hannah Mull, Grant Coleman, Rosemary Ketchum & Claudel Whetstone.
Once again from the Courtyard at Later Alligator James chats with Corrine Chamberlain. The conversation ranges from serious discussion about the trials and tribulations of life to a hilariously sublime conversation about roommates, pets, reality TV and more when her roommate Matt Klempa joins in.
James and Sara chat with Later Alligator’s resident Mixologist & barista Amanda Kuri in Later Gator Courtyard. Amanda talks about her passion for cocktails, coffee, tea and other libations.
In the first podcast recorded from the Courtyard at Later Alligator James catches up with old friend and recent graduate of Emerson University film school Brian Louis Thomas aka BLT. Brian is director, writer & actor. He starred James’ first 2 films “Sterling Bannister” & “A Night at the Coffee shop”. Brian will be attending graduate school in Ireland in the fall. They discuss all things filmmaking and reminisce about the good times they had Grind house Coffee shop in St. Clairsville.
James and co-host Sara Fulton chat with musician Ezra John Hamilton. Ezra gets into all aspects of pursuing a career as a musician. From his band Hit Play and his solo career to his work as a song writer and producer. He talks about how passion combined with a plan has allowed him to pursue music full time on his own terms while staying based in Wheeling, West Virginia.
In this special roundtable episode James and the Ohio Valley's own Christine Kinneer, Natalie Kovacs & Oland Boles get into a lively discussion about Bigfoot, alien greys, Mothman, the Loch Ness Monster, Slenderman and all manner of cryptids. Then the discussion goes deep into the Paranormal, ancient alien theory and the pyramids.
James joins Christy Cianelli at the Children’s Museum to chat about what the CMOV is up to and why if you haven’t been there you’re missing out.
Sarah Clark and James drink a few beers and get into everything from local life to bigger issues.
James & Will sit down with old friend Danny Padden & new friend Alec Berry to discuss the upcoming Broccoli: A Dance event they have organized on behalf of Grow OV. Tune in to find out what the Broccoli Dance is and why you want to be there. Alec & Danny explain to the philosophy behind the unique events they’ve planned and share tales of some the interesting experiences from the previous events.
James & Will chat with Samantha Amberg Dougherty. In addition to learning how to properly pronounce Dougherty James learns more about the unusual career path that led her to her job at Grow OV, her appreciation of the east and Wheeling in particular. We talk hobbies and other things that make life great.
James meets up with old friend musician & theologies Michael Iafrate to discuss details of the music video they will we collaborating on and squeeze in an episode of the podcast in the process. They chat about the release of his new record Christian Burial. Michael along with Joshua Lee will be performing on June 10th @ 8:00 PM at Towngate Theatre as part of a special double album release celebration. The podcast ends with My Body Will Speak To You from the new album.
James meets up with Alexandra Panas and Co-Host Will Wallace for a beer and lively conversation. Alex and Will are both active members of the Wheeling Young Preservationist. On this episode we discuss getting involved and caring about your local community. We chat about life in the OV and OU.
James talks with Chef Ryan Butler after a delicious meal at his home. Ryan is the Chef at Wheeling Brewing Company. They discuss his passion for cooking, his use of local fresh ingredients and how he’s bringing exciting new flavors to the local cuisine.
PowerKat success has been hard earned and well deserved. Core members Eddie Berardi & William Wallace are a song writing tour de force. With Wallace bringing the power and Berardi supplying the Kat these gentlemen are making epic rock and roll music right here in Wheeling, in Eddie’s backyard in fact. Joining the band on this epic recording session is Kyle Cunningham and the podcast’s very own James Wodarcyk.
Drift by Joshua Lee from the EP Promise Land. Come to the CD release concert on Saturday June 10th at 8:00 PM at Oglebay Institute's Towngate Theatre & Cinema.
James sits down for a chat with long time friends Eddie Berardi, William Wallace & Kyle Cunningham from the band Concrete Teepee. Out of respect for band member Robbie Kettlewell, who was away on travels, we they decided to talk about anything but the band. They go deep into why they stayed in the area, what they love about Wheeling and their hopes for the future of the Ohio Valley. Kyle confesses to arson. Will calls out James for maligning his good name on an earlier podcast and Eddie explains the microbiological reference being the name of his first punk band. New nicknames were tried out and the podcast ends with a live musical performance by PowerKat + Kyle.
James joins Josh Taylor aka Joshua Lee in his studio as the release of his debut EP “Promise Land” approaches. Josh discusses the 14 years he spent in Nashville as a professional musician. They discuss his earliest experiences in music through the church. He tells of the ups and downs of life on the road. They discuss the joys of being in a band and working with truly talented people. Josh talks about the decision to leave Nashville to spend more time with his children and how that decision paved the way for him to step out front as a singer/songwriter. Josh was kind enough to give the podcast listeners a sneak preview of the song Drift at the end of the podcast.
James has dinner with the Gaudio family followed by a great conversation with Bob & Clare in the living room of their lovely home which is a converted one room school house. They discuss the long and winding road of life that led them to where they are and how our past experiences effect who we are today.
James has a very interesting conversation with the ever thought provoking George Kellas. In this episode they go deep on the big issues face the country and the world today. George and James share their common and sometimes unique and even perhaps controversial ideas about the election, drug legalization, the education system and much more.
James chats with Stephen from Merican Canjo & Secret Devil Tuning at his kitchen table a few hours before his show with Joe Zelek in Pittsburgh.
James has a beer at the Sear's residence with Ryan Sear, Sean Decker & Matt Klempa from the band Mr. Fancy Pants. The guys talk about how they got their start as musicians, the long and winding path that led to the current incarnation of the group including the origins of the name Mr. Fancy Pant. We discussed the local Punk scene which I completely missed while living out of town and the current burgeoning music scene in this laugh filled episode.
James sits at the dining room table of Brandon Holmes & Melissa Saville from Renew by Nitesco to discuss their restoration & catering businesses. We talk about how they got started in business and as a couple. I had a great time making friends with this inspiring couple.
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James get's together with long time friends Scott Steele & Lawrence Davis. They all met at The Grindhouse Coffee shop where they often discussed Movies, Music & TV and more.