Prost! Podcast

Scott Eckart sits down to Interview Shane Christ of Acres Away Winery in Ashley, Indiana. They talk in the middle of the 2026 harvest. Shane covers estate-grown grapes, why he sticks with proven varieties, and why he'd rather stay small than chase growth.  Kirk Etheridge (Head Winemaker) joins, and the 3 discuss the Indiana Wine scene as well as their vision for what a midwestern and Indiana Winery experience could and should be.  They discuss challenges and opportunities, and what might be the next big thing!  In this episodeHarvest check-in: Shane says harvest is about 30% done. He calls it an odd year and is hoping for dry weather. Petite Pearl was due to arrive within a couple of hours.Where Acres Away is: The winery is about 30 minutes north of Fort Wayne, between Auburn and Angola, roughly 20 minutes from the Michigan border. Scott compares the climate with his own region and with Bloomington and Owen Valley.A true estate vineyard: Shane follows the legal definition of "estate." The vineyard is attached to the winery property. It covers about six acres of rolling hillside surrounded by corn and soybean fields.What's planted: The estate grows six varietals: Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc, La Crescent, Vignoles and Norton, which Shane calls the flagship red. There's also a five-row planting of Ives for blending and fun. He also works with about four local growers within a half hour.Old varieties vs. shiny new grapes: Shane prefers predictable varieties that perform here. Scott brings up Traminette and the setbacks from the polar vortex. They also discuss Vidal Blanc, including the ice wine Shane plans to make as the vines mature, and sparkling wine.A guest joins: Winemaker Kirk Etheridge joins the conversation partway through.Quality and philosophy: Shane is particular about wine flaws and faults and keeps a clean cellar and winery. He would rather stay small and nimble and give every visitor an unforgettable experience.Quote"I'm willing to die a slow death if it means that we're providing people with an outstanding visit."https://acresawaywinery.com

Scott Eckart visits Mark Eckard at Fat Pig Recording Company in Dunkirk, Indiana, for an unscripted conversation about recording, tone, and community. The episode covers Mark’s path from self-taught amp builder to studio owner, plus the practical side of capturing drums, guitars, and full-band performances in a room designed to make artists feel comfortable.  Scott frames the discussion around one core idea: local music gets stronger when musicians, engineers, and venues support each other. Mark shares how he built his studio, how he thinks about tone, and why simplicity and the right room matter more than endless gear choices.Key topicsScott introduces the mission behind the Prose podcast: bringing together musicianship, recording, and support for live local original music.Mark Eckard explains how Fat Pig Recording Company came together, from an earlier mix room in Charlotte to the current studio in downtown Dunkirk.Mark shares the origin of Fat Pig amps: a one-knob tube amp he built for an Alice in Chains tribute band that led to requests for more.He explains his approach to amp design—starting with familiar lineages like Vox, Fender, Marshall, Matchless, and Bad Cat, then adapting the elements he wants to improve.Mark describes his hands-on building style, including point-to-point wiring and custom builds tailored to players’ needs.The conversation gets into recording workflow, with a focus on drum miking, room microphones, kick drum layering, and guitar amp capture.Scott and Mark compare the challenges of recording solo acoustic guitar and vocals with the possibilities of fuller band arrangements.Mark reflects on learning electronics, recording, and amp design through experimentation and self-teaching.They discuss community and networking as essential parts of sustaining music scenes in Dunkirk, Richmond, and the surrounding Indiana area.The episode closes on the value of feel and imperfection—and how a good performance in the right room can beat over-editing.Timestamps00:00 - Studio visit, introduction, and the mission of the Prose podcast 02:51 - How Fat Pig Recording Company came together 03:19 - The first amp build and its Alice in Chains tribute band origin 04:36 - How the amp earned the name “Fat Pig” 05:43 - Developing amp designs by adapting favorite circuits 06:00 - Fat Pig’s amp influences: Vox, Fender, Marshall, Matchless, and Bad Cat 07:45 - A look around the studio and its tracking setup 09:08 - Tracking and when to send a project out for mastering 10:15 - Mark’s musical beginnings with bass and trombone 12:07 - Early reel-to-reel recording and the transition to Pro Tools 13:50 - Self-teaching and a hobby that grew into a serious pursuit 17:21 - How amp building became part of Mark’s story 20:31 - The pawn-shop Marshall story and the famous amp connection 22:21 - Custom amp builds and combining different amp characteristics 24:05 - Combos, heads, cabinets, and Mark’s hands-on construction approach 26:04 - Choosing the right amp for the job instead of chasing endless options 29:10 - Why controlling the tracking process matters 30:14 - Recording philosophy, room sound, and source quality 31:14 - The challenge of recording solo acoustic guitar and vocals 32:28 - Drum recording, overheads, and capturing the right feel 34:15 - Kick, snare, tom, and room mic approaches 39:14 - Room mic placement and using reflections 41:20 - Bass workflow and guitar amp recording 42:00 - Guitar mic combinations and phase alignment 43:45 - Working across genres while keeping the recorded sound natural 45:15 - Jansen Duncan’s studio efficiency and the importance of young talent 46:10 - Building a local music ecosystem around venues and bookings 47:47 - Singles, albums, and releasing music today 49:17 - Dave Hatley’s distinctive pedal steel sound 50:35 - Networking, craft, luck, and persistence in the music business 55:35 - The soul of music, imperfection, and letting a performance breathe 56:07 - Closing thoughts and support for the local music scene

Summary:In this episode, Scott Eckart interviews Sarah Fields, Pilgrimage Wine Company's Chief social media marketing strategist.  We talk about her journey, as well as discuss strategies and highlight insights of effective online marketing for small businesses and wineries. We explore the importance of branding, content creation, and community engagement in building a successful brand.Keywords:social media marketing, branding, small business, winery marketing, content strategy, community building, digital marketing, marketing strategies, online branding, marketing tipsKey Topics:The importance of branding and visual identityStrategies for effective social media contentCommunity engagement and local marketingUsing data and analytics to refine marketing effortsThe balance of creativity and technical skills in marketingThe impact of industry trends and AI on marketingBuilding trust and perception through contentThe journey from military logistics to digital marketingLinks:Sarah Fields - Social Media Expert - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahfieldsPilgrimage Wine Company - https://www.pilgrimagewine.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/sarahlfields

Scott Eckart sits down with Joel David Weir for a wide-ranging conversation about songwriting, performance, recording, and why Indiana keeps producing so many strong writers. They also dig into Joel’s new recording plans, his creative services business with Maria, and the role Pilgrimage Wine Company is playing as a home for live original music. Further, Joel shares how he turns songs into stories that land live, why comfort and trust matter so much in performance and recording, and how his influences range from John Prine and Jason Isbell to Pearl Jam, R.E.M., and Depeche Mode. Scott and Joel also talk candidly about the challenge of getting audiences to care about original local music, and what it takes to build a scene that lasts.Key topics:Joel explains the Drop In podcast format and how it focuses on creative people in their own spaces.Why Indiana keeps producing strong singer-songwriters, and how the local scene supports itself.The difference between playing for other musicians and building a broader audience.How live performance depends on more than just playing and singing well - trust, persona, and storytelling matter too.Joel’s new recording and production work through Squirrelifont with Maria, including writing, editing, and mobile recording. His approach to helping artists get comfortable so they can capture better takes.The new record he is making with Richard Inskeep at the Monastery in Cincinnati.Why these songs feel bigger with a full band, and how Joel is using Kickstarter to help fund the project. Influences that shape his sound, from John Prine and Lucinda Williams to grunge and alternative rock.The story behind “Tower of Hurt,” inspired by graffiti in the Tower of London and connected to John Prine.QUOTES:“Music has saved my life a million times over.”“The magic is in the growing, it’s in the farming.”“The one endeavor where you can get lost while you’re also finding yourself.”

In this episode, Sarah Fields interviews Scott and Emma Eckart, who share the origin story behind Pilgrimage and Treaty Line — from military life and travels through Sicily and California to building a winery and independent record label on a family farm in Indiana. What starts as a discussion about wine quickly becomes a bigger conversation about vision, patience, craftsmanship, local music, and building something meaningful as a team.  They talk about how their experiences abroad shaped their approach to wine, why they chose to plant grapes in Indiana, and how a long-running passion for music eventually evolved into a studio and record label. The episode also explores the realities of being small business owners, the importance of community, and why they believe original local music and authentic experiences matter.Key TopicsThe origin story of PilgrimageMilitary life, travel, and the influence of SicilyWhy they planted grapes in IndianaThe early challenges of winemakingTurning a family farm into a wineryBuilding Treaty Line as an independent record labelWhy they prioritize original local musicThe role of community, collaboration, and live performanceWhat it takes to run a small creative businessTheir first Treaty Line music festival and album releaseNotable MomentsDiscovering the idea for a winery and vineyard through travel and experience abroadLearning that winemaking is a long game, not a quick profit playRealizing the farm could become a place for both wine and musicMoving the studio to the farm and watching the music vision grow naturallyTalking about the value of original music versus cover bandsSharing the excitement and practical details behind the first music festivalMain TakeawaysGreat businesses are often built through patience, research, and blind faith.Creative work is stronger when it is rooted in place and community.Original music and handmade wine both require time, intention, and craftsmanship.Small business success is rarely linear, but momentum builds through consistent action.Partnerships work best when each person brings different strengths to the table.Why This Story Stands OutThis is more than a business story — it’s about creating a shared vision and then committing to it for years before it fully takes shape. The combination of wine, music, family land, and entrepreneurship gives the episode a distinctive emotional pull and a strong sense of place.Mentioned Throughout the EpisodePilgrimageTreaty LineIndiana family farmWine production and tasting room growthLocal artists and live musicThe Treaty Line music festival and album releaseEpisode ThemeBuilding something lasting by trusting the process, honoring the past, and creating space for art, community, and craft to grow together.

In this episode, we sit down with musician and producer Michael W. Johnson I to delve into his innovative approach to blending acoustic and electronic music, his experience with live backing tracks, and his perspective on supporting the local music scene. Whether you're a singer-songwriter, producer, or music enthusiast, there's valuable insight into the creative process and navigating the evolving industry.Main Topics CoveredThe integration of backing tracks in live performances and how Michael syncs and manages themThe influence of diverse genres, from folk to metal, on Michael’s songwriting and production styleThe importance of authenticity and emotional honesty in songwritingBuilding and supporting a local scene through social media, radio, and community engagementThe role of meditation and mindfulness in the creative process and mental health for artistsTechnical setups including software like Ableton, Reaper, and portable controllers for live showsKey InsightsMichael's detailed process of using an app called Easy Performer to trigger stems during performancesThe impact of genres like new metal, folk, and power ballads on his songwritingThe significance of authenticity and vulnerability in building a genuine musical identityStrategies for leveraging local radio and social media to promote emerging artistsThe parallels between meditation/mindfulness and musical creativityThe importance of consistent content release and building luck through persistent effortTimestamps00:00 - Introduction to Michael Johnson and the underground radio scene 01:20 - Michael shares his background and scene support efforts 02:29 - Technical setup for backing tracks and live synchronization 03:50 - Using stems and apps like Easy Performer for live shows 04:54 - Overcoming technical challenges and sound engineering tips 06:20 - Collaboration with UK producers and songwriting influences 07:41 - The power of live backing tracks and stage presence 08:41 - Connecting acoustic songwriting with electronic backing tracks 09:36 - Influences from bands like Chevelle and the power of emotion in music 10:52 - How chords and melody intertwine during songwriting 12:20 - Genre differences: folk, power ballads, new metal, and eclectic influences 14:41 - Playing with tuning and melodic tension in guitar work 15:45 - Audience reactions to Michael’s modern sound at folk showcases 16:47 - Authenticity in songwriting and avoiding clichés 18:08 - The art of lyric writing and melody creation 20:25 - Vocal influences and Michael’s vocal style 22:26 - The relationship between lyrics and chord progressions 24:31 - Creative inspiration, songwriting spurts, and patience 26:45 - Meditation as a tool for artistic and personal growth 27:50 - The euphoric feeling of performing and creating music 30:53 - The importance of persistence and effort in songwriting 32:42 - Michael’s collaboration with UK producer Jordan Lapping 35:25 - The process of arranging and mixing tracks remotely 37:46 - Recent releases and unreleased upcoming projects 39:41 - Building confidence and reputation through local gigs 42:22 - Supporting and growing the local scene through collaboration 44:46 - Promoting original music versus tribute and cover bands 46:34 - The future of the Richmond music scene and local support networks 50:14 - The value of storytelling and emotional connection in performances 52:24 - Sharing resources: radio, Facebook groups, and local promotion 54:17 - Advice for new musicians: patience, authenticity, and persistence 58:02 - Michael’s wrestling background and storytelling in performance art 61:05 - Creative pursuits beyond music: visual arts, fabricating, and tech modding 63:30 - Final thoughts on supporting local artists and future plans

In this interview, Scott Eckart sits down with Brittany Gibson, Executive Director of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, to talk about wine tourism, storytelling, and what it takes to create a winery experience that actually drives sales and loyalty. Brittany shares her personal journey from aspiring lawyer to wine industry leader, along with the lessons she learned in marketing, tourism, and regional collaboration.What you’ll hear in this episodeBrittany’s origin story: growing up on Seneca Lake and unexpectedly finding her way into wineHow wine, tourism, and marketing became her lifelong career pathWhy Seneca Lake is one of the most important wine regions in the Finger LakesThe role of authenticity, personalization, and value in the tasting room experienceWhy the winery visit is the real driver of sales, club signups, and brand loyaltyHow wineries can improve by focusing on brand clarity instead of scripted serviceThe importance of regional collaboration over competitionCurrent challenges facing wine regions, including declining visitation and changing consumer behaviorKey themes1. The winery visit matters mostBrittany explains that for East Coast and New World wine regions, the tasting room experience is where brand loyalty begins. If the visit feels memorable, educational, and personal, the rest of the business follows.2. Storytelling beats scriptingRather than training staff to recite a fixed script, Brittany recommends brand clarity: knowing who you are, what you stand for, and how you want guests to feel. That creates space for authentic conversations.3. Experience is the new differentiatorIn a crowded market, wine alone is not enough. Guests want connection, meaning, and a reason to choose one winery over another. The experience has to be compelling, accessible, and distinct.4. Wine clubs are not one-size-fits-allBrittany makes the case that wine clubs can be valuable, but only when they fit the winery’s business model, staff, product, and economics. Success depends on measurement, retention, and profitability.5. Collaboration creates destination appealOne winery can attract attention, but a region can become a destination. Brittany emphasizes that regional partnerships and shared marketing efforts lift everyone.Notable quotes“The winery visit drives the entire business.”“Your staff shouldn’t have a script.”“Storytelling increases perceived value.”“One winery is an attraction, 10 wineries is a destination.”“If you don’t measure it, it doesn’t matter.”Topics discussedBrittany’s background and career pathThe Seneca Lake Wine Trail and its missionCool-climate varieties like Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and sparkling winesThe role of wine tourism in regional economic healthTasting room strategy and customer experienceWine club economics and membership valueBrand clarity, emotional connection, and customer loyaltyChallenges and opportunities for Seneca Lake in 2026 and beyondWhy this conversation mattersThis episode is a practical look at how wineries can thrive in a changing market. Brittany’s perspective is especially valuable because it blends marketing strategy, regional leadership, and real-world experience from the cellar door to the boardroom.About Brittany GibsonBrittany Gibson is the Executive Director of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, where she leads consumer marketing, regional partnerships, and advocacy efforts to promote one of the most respected wine regions in the country.About Seneca Lake Wine TrailThe Seneca Lake Wine Trail is a nonprofit, membership-based organization dedicated to building awareness and driving visitation to member wineries in the Finger Lakes region of New York.

SummaryJoin us as we explore the vibrant music scene in Eastern Indiana, the journey of singer-songwriter Joe Shelton, and the importance of supporting local artists. Discover insights on songwriting, recording, and the passion that drives independent musicians.keywordsmusic scene, songwriting, independent artists, recording, Indiana, live music, podcast, music venues, artist supportKey TopicsIndiana's vibrant local music sceneJoe Shelton's journey as a singer-songwriterThe importance of supporting independent artistsRecording and production tips for musiciansThe role of community and venues in fostering talentSupport Local Music MovementSongwriting Challenge FormatRecording and Mixing WorkflowChapters00:00Introduction and Local Weather Discussion04:35The Music Scene in Eastern Indiana09:56Joe's Musical Journey and Podcast Creation17:01Exploring Joe's Musical Style and Influences27:22Engaging the Audience Through Songwriting31:28The Recording Process: From Studio to Home37:16Collaborative Music Creation and Networking48:01Mastering and Mixing: The Final Touches50:46Songwriting Process: From Concept to Creation51:37Songwriting Challenges and Inspirations54:06The Evolution of Songwriting56:01Melody and Composition in Music57:31The Passion for Music and Wine59:38The Complexity of Wine and Beer01:00:55The Pursuit of Authenticity in Music and Wine01:02:52Supporting Local Artists and Music Venues01:05:06The Diversity of Music Genres01:07:16Upcoming Shows and Collaborations01:08:22Final Thoughts and Future Plans01:16:15Joe Shelton extro.mp3

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Christian Butzke from Purdue University as we delve into the rich heritage, current challenges, and exciting innovations shaping Indiana's wine industry. Discover how local varieties, climate resilience, and university-driven research are blending tradition with entrepreneurship to craft a vibrant future for Midwest wines.In this episode:The evolution of Indiana's wine industry and the importance of local varieties like Traminette and VignolesHow climate challenges like late frosts and polar vortex's influence grape selection and vineyard managementThe role of university research and collaboration in developing pest-resistant and cold-hardy grape varietiesThe significance of storytelling, branding, and regional identity in building a successful local wine industryOpportunities for innovation in blending, aging techniques, and marketing strategies to differentiate Indiana winesThe potential of regional alliances and cooperative branding to elevate Indiana’s wine profileThe value of mentorship, knowledge sharing, and industry community in fostering growth and resilienceResources & Links:Purdue University College of AgricultureJim Butler WinesAndy and Mabel Butler - Butler WineryCreekbend Oliver WinesNYS Grape Breeding Program at CornellHistory of Indiana Grape IndustryConnect with Dr. Christian Budsky:LinkedInPurdue University ProfileNote: This episode emphasizes the importance of regional identity, innovation in grape breeding, and community collaboration—integral elements guiding Indiana's dynamic wine industry forward.

In this engaging interview, JC Clements, president of Hoosier Original Music Association (HooMac), shares insights into Indiana's vibrant local music scene, the importance of supporting original artists, and upcoming events like Farmette in South Bend. Discover how community, authenticity, and strategic networking are shaping Indiana's unique musical identity.keywordsIndiana music scene, HooMac, Farmette 2026, local artists, music community, live music, artist development, music events, Indiana culture, music industrykey topicsIndiana's vibrant local music sceneThe mission and activities of HoomacUpcoming Pharma event in South BendCommunity and industry support for artistsThe importance of authentic, original musicSound Bites"JC Clements is president of HooMac.""Upcoming Pharma event in South Bend.""Networking at Farmette is invaluable."Chapters00:00Introduction to J.C. Clements and Hoomac04:20The Birth of HOMAC and Its Impact07:23The Evolution of Indiana's Music Scene10:18Supporting Local Artists and Original Music13:26The Importance of Local Music in Community16:30Challenges Facing Musicians Today19:27The Unique Musical Heritage of Indiana22:34The Role of Community in Music25:36Respect and Humility in the Music Scene28:15The Future of Indiana's Music Scene33:33Emerging Talents in Indiana's Music Scene36:05Networking and Showcasing Opportunities36:35Pharmaet Showcase and Its Impact38:20The Evolution of Indiana's Music Identity40:40The Role of Community in Music43:33HUMAC's Mission and Growth45:42Investing in Local Music48:53Creating Connections Through Music53:38Future Collaborations and Events57:25Prost! Podcast JC extro.mp3