Phil Vassar Opens Up on Heart, Music, and Resilience

Rock icon Suzi Quatro joins us to discuss her seventh book, "Grave Undertakings," and reflects on her remarkable six-decade career in entertainment. She shares the fascinating creative process behind her latest psychological novel, her upcoming music projects, and her experiences as an actress on the iconic TV show "Happy Days." • Suzi discusses her new book "Grave Undertakings," which incorporates tombstone inscriptions collected from famous friends over 35 years • The book evolved from a collection of quotes into a psychological novel featuring six students and their Austrian professor • Creativity takes on a life of its own – Suzi often surprised herself when rereading her work • At almost 75, Suzi is working harder than ever with non-stop touring and recording • She calls her current phase "the gravy years" – enjoying her work without the pressure of early career • Her upcoming projects include a new rock album featuring Alice Cooper and her third poetry book • Suzi reflects on her role in "Happy Days" and how the cast helped her develop as an actress • Her ideal tombstone would read "Now I get it" on one side and "Too many dreams, too little time" on the other Find Suzi's new book "Grave Undertakings" wherever books are sold. Look for her upcoming rock album and catch her on tour across Europe and Australia this year Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Country music star Phil Vassar shares his remarkable journey of survival and rebirth after experiencing a near-fatal heart attack that stopped his heart for nearly 30 minutes. We explore his profound two-year recovery process and how this life-altering experience transformed his approach to music, creativity, and the entertainment industry. • Phil had to relearn basic functions including walking and playing piano after his "sudden death" episode • Despite being physically fit with healthy eating habits, Phil's heart attack was attributed to genetic factors • The recovery process included months at Shepherd Center in Atlanta followed by continued rehabilitation at home • Phil now feels more calm, focused, and confident in his musical choices after facing mortality • The health crisis shifted Phil's perspective from pleasing industry gatekeepers to creating authentic music he loves • Phil's illustrious career includes writing hits for Tim McGraw, Alan Jackson and meeting legends like Elton John • Nashville's Music Row has changed dramatically with iconic studios being replaced by condominiums • Phil is building a recording studio in his barn to create music on his own terms • The conversation touches on memorable encounters with Glen Campbell, BJ Thomas, and performances at the White House • Phil expresses gratitude for his second chance at life and the opportunity to reflect on his 35+ year career I'm doing fewer shows this year - only about 30-40 - which has given me time to reflect on everything that's happened. I really believe everything happens for a reason, and I'm definitely thankful to be here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tony Christie shares his remarkable journey from performing in small UK nightclubs to becoming an international star touring worldwide after signing with MCA Records in 1971. His life transformed completely as hit songs like "Las Vegas" and "Amarillo" opened doors to global tours and changed his family's circumstances forever. • Career launched by manager Harvey Lisberg, who also managed Herman's Hermits • Experienced multiple career revivals, including when Peter Kay used "Amarillo" in his TV show • Recorded new albums in Nashville with top session musicians • Currently navigating a dementia diagnosis but continuing to perform extensively • Touring actively at age 81 with performances scheduled throughout the year • Recently released albums "We Still Shine" and "A New Life" • Hoping to perform in Amarillo, Texas, where he was given the key to the city • Maintains multi-generational appeal with families attending shows together Join us for this inspiring conversation about resilience, musical passion, and finding new beginnings at any age Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Taylor Blackwell shares her journey from child actor mentored by Burt Reynolds to multi-talented creator writing, directing, and starring in her own projects. She discusses the creative freedom that comes with having more control over her artistic vision and the excitement of bringing stories to life. • Started acting at age 5, later incorporating music into her career • Met Burt Reynolds at age 10 and became his student until his passing • Values the creative control of developing her own projects • Recently completed "It Happened: The Judy Tenuta Story," where she wrote, directed, and starred • Chose Judy Tenuta's story partly because both play accordion • Found similarities between Judy's journey to find her voice and her own artistic development • Creating a comfortable environment for cast and crew brings out their best performances • Currently working on a second album described as an "indie rock musical" • Aspires to become a showrunner and tour as a musician • Passionate about animal rights and works with Mercy for Animals Find Taylor on Instagram and YouTube @themusicalmushroom or email [email protected] to connect about film festival opportunities. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kelsie Watts shares her extraordinary journey from Texas to Broadway, balancing her role as Jane Seymour in "Six: The Musical" with releasing music and mental health advocacy. • Unexpected path to Broadway began when a musical supervisor approached her during a showboat performance • Transitioned from Nashville to New York City in January after eight years in Music City • Improved acting and dance skills after initial rejection from Six, demonstrating commitment to growth outside her comfort zone • Navigates performing eight Broadway shows weekly while simultaneously releasing music as an independent artist • Uses her platform to reduce mental health stigma following her brother's loss to depression in 2013 • Partners with organizations like Not Alone 988 to promote mental health awareness through her music • Worked as a Nashville bartender until October 2022 to fund her artistic career • Future aspirations include originating a Broadway role and headlining her own music tour • Credits her husband Brandon as her biggest supporter during career challenges   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trigger, editor and creator of SavingCountryMusic.com, shares how his website grew from a grassroots effort to champion independent country music artists into an influential platform that has helped launch careers and change the industry. • Started SavingCountryMusic.com in 2008 out of frustration with mainstream country music • Built his reputation by being the first to discover artists like Sturgill Simpson and Zach Bryan • Takes pride in helping artists reach a level where they no longer need his platform • Successfully advocated for the Grammy Awards to add a Best Traditional Country Album category • Has built a passionate grassroots fan community similar to the Grateful Dead model • Deliberately chose to remain a stepping stone for artists rather than expanding into other business areas • Launching "The Hook" - a new songwriter showcase featuring both established and undiscovered talent • The Hook will provide professional video content, industry connections, and honest feedback to participants • First official taping will be September 29th at Eastside Bowl in Nashville   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Barry Mazor unveils the untold story behind his comprehensive biography "Blood Harmony: The Everly Brothers Story," offering unprecedented insights into the lives and legacy of rock and roll pioneers Don and Phil Everly. This meticulously researched 400-page book represents the first serious, depth-sourced biography of the iconic duo whose harmonies and groundbreaking fusion of country and rock shaped generations of music. • Writing process took three and a half years of deep research and document analysis • Many key figures from the Everlys' early career have passed away, requiring extensive archival research • International fan club provided rare newspaper clippings and materials from around the world • Interviewed previously unheard voices including producers, road managers, wives and girlfriends • Explores the complex relationship between two brothers "practically stapled together for 60 years" • Reveals personal struggles including Don Everly's two suicide attempts • Examines their musical innovation combining sweet country harmonies with R&B rhythms • Highlights their massive influence on The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Beach Boys and countless others • First sentence of book: "The difference between the famed and the rest of us is that so many people think they know them" Blood Harmony: The Everly Brothers Story is available now wherever books are sold.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jeffrey Sitkov and Justine Yildiz share the powerful story of Doors of Change, a nonprofit that has helped over 2,900 homeless youth find housing and essential services since 2001. Through their innovative Homeless Youth Advocacy Program, they're transforming lives by building trust with vulnerable young people and connecting them with the resources needed to leave street life behind. • Approximately 4.2 million youth between 17-24 are homeless in America today • 40% of homeless youth are LGBTQ+ individuals typically kicked out after coming out to their families • 60% come from severely dysfunctional families with parents suffering from mental illness or substance abuse • Justine ran away at 12 and spent years on the streets before finding help through Doors of Change • Building trust is crucial—the organization provides 24/7 support and meets youth exactly where they are • Their music and art program helped Justine develop jewelry-making skills that supported her through school • Justine's journey from suicide watch to law school graduate demonstrates the power of consistent support • The organization has helped 966 youth find housing in just the last four years • Music industry support from artists like Elton John, Billy Joel, and Willie Nelson has helped raise nearly $900,000 • Even small donations of $18/month can make a profound difference in a young person's life Visit doorsofchange.org to learn more about their work and how you can help transform the lives of homeless youth through your support.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Multi-award winning filmmaker Susie Singer-Carter shares her journey from entertainment industry professional to healthcare advocate after her mother's battle with Alzheimer's and experience with nursing home neglect. • Born and raised in Los Angeles to parents in the music industry, storytelling was always part of her DNA • Started in journalism at UCLA before transitioning to radio, acting, and forming a music group with Chuck Lorre • Moved into children's programming and film, working on Saturday morning CBS shows and co-writing movies like "Bratz" and "Soul Surfer" • Created the Oscar-qualified short film "My Mom and the Girl," starring Valerie Harper, based on her mother's Alzheimer's journey • Her documentary "No Country for Old People" exposes systemic nursing home neglect after witnessing her mother's mistreatment • Worked with former federal prosecutor Rick Montcastle to create a comprehensive look at long-term care failures • Launched the ROAR movement (Respect, Outreach, Advocacy, Reform) to mobilize families for long-term care reform • Uses her platform to destigmatize Alzheimer's and advocate for better care for vulnerable populations For more information or to join the movement, visit nocountryforoldpeople.com and learn how to be part of creating change in our long-term care system.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steve Cohen, Emmy award-winning producer and Billy Joel's longtime creative director, guides us through the creation of HBO's powerful new documentary "Billy Joel: And So It Goes," premiering July 18th and 25th as a landmark two-part film exploring the Piano Man's extraordinary life and music. • Billy Joel initially resisted documentary proposals for years, believing "his life is in his music" until recently deciding the time was right • The project came together when filmmaker Susan Lacey (creator of PBS's American Masters series) connected with Cohen through a series of fortunate coincidences • Cohen served as executive producer while ensuring Billy maintained no editorial control to preserve the film's authenticity • Susan Lacey and co-director Jessica Levin created an unexpected connection with Billy through their shared classical music backgrounds and Holocaust survivor family histories • The documentary features 120 Billy Joel songs and reveals the personal stories and motivations behind his writing that he rarely discussed publicly • Steve Cohen is transitioning from his 50-year rock and roll touring career to focus on film and television production as his "second act" Watch "Billy Joel: And So It Goes" premiering on HBO July 18th (Part One) and July 25th (Part Two).   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.