Free Daily Podcast Summary
Bluegrass BKLYN: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Mike Willner
Check out the vibrant bluegrass music scene here in Brooklyn, NYC - and beyond. Join your hosts Mike Willner and Liz Wolfe to meet the musicians and teachers, explore the venues and events, and share the stories and community in the Bluegrass Borough .... and beyond. We’ll talk classic bluegrass, bluegrass-adjacent music, vendors, instruments, jam camps, current events, gear ... you know, all the good stuff! So give a listen, we’ll have a fine old time.
Latest Episodes
The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
- 4 days ago56 min
S7E5 Bluegrass Dynamo Stephen Mougin!
Stephen Mougin shares insights into his multi-faceted, award-winning career with Mike. Performing artist, record company executive, lauded music producer, SiriusXM host, music educator – he spans a wide swath of the music industry and we attempt to cover it all. Then, banjo player and friend of the show Hilary Hawke updates us on her latest exploits and her show at Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Stephen Mougin Dark Shadow Recording Sam Bush Hilary Hawke Upcoming Events of Note: Hilary Hawke House Concert – September 18th @ Hop Bottom PA Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival – September 19th – 20th @ Georgetown CT Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: “There’s No Reason To” – Stephan and Jana Mougin, to be released 9/25/26 “I’m Gonna Ride” – Stephen Mougin Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
- 1 weeks ago39 min
S7M4 Artists You Should Know: Urs-Ranier von Arx!
Liz catches up with her friend and fellow banjo picker Urs von Arx, now back home in Zurich after 21 years in New York City. Urs shares what he loved about the NYC jam scene, how it compares with bluegrass in Switzerland, and the remarkable story of his 57 years playing with the Country Ramblers. He also takes us inside the Swiss Bluegrass Music Association, where he now serves as co-president, and talks about the challenge of bringing a new generation into the music. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Urs von Arx The Country Ramblers Bear on Banjo YouTube Playlist Swiss Bluegrass Music Association Calendar Upcoming Events of Note: Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival – September 19th – 20th @ Georgetown CT Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: “Dixie Breakdown” – Urs von Arx & The Country Ramblers “Huckleberry Hornpipe” – Urs von Arx & The Country Ramblers Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
- 1 weeks ago15 min
S7FA1 Festival Alert: Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival!
Festival Alert! We have a new festival in the area! Festival Co-Producer Austin Scelzo chats with Mike about this brand-new festival – Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival (September 19th and 20th) at The Granite, a wonderful music venue in Fairfield CT. Take a walk with Mike and Austin through what’s going on and what to expect. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Planet Granite Music & Art Festival Austin Scelzo Hilary Hawke Chris Luquette The Slide Stops Music in this Episode: ‘Slow Rolling Train’ – J.M. Clifford ‘Cherokee Shuffle’ – The Biscuit Eaters Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors - Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com follow @bluegrassbklyn
- 1 weeks ago45 min
S7E4 Women in Bluegrass: Farayi!
Liz talks with singer, songwriter, fiddler, and educator Farayi Malek about her musical journey from childhood fiddle contests to years of studying jazz—and now back to her American roots. Farayi shares fascinating insights into the connections between blues, jazz, bluegrass, and country music, and challenges us to think differently about the voice as an improvisational instrument. Plus, Liz puts your Dolly Parton knowledge to the test! Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Farayi American Roots Music Program @ Berklee College Earl Jam 2 Dolly Parton Upcoming Events of Note: Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival – September 19th & 20Th @ Georgetown CT Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Music in this Episode: Mom and Dad’s Waltz – Farayi & Tony Trischka I Will Always Love You – Dolly Parton Prayer for the People – Farayi & The Steel Drivers Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
- 2 weeks ago46 min
S7M3 Iconic Music Workshops: The Swannanoa Gathering!
For five weeks in the Summer - and now some weekends in the Fall – the Blue Ridge Mountains at Warren Wilson College come alive with music, dance, and the joy of learning at The Swannanoa Gathering. Mike and Kevin Kehrberg, Director of The Swannanoa Gathering, discuss the special magic of The Gathering that combines music education, culture, community and a deep connection to the roots of our favorite music. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode The Swannanoa Gathering Warren Wilson College Kevin Kehrberg Ron Pen Erynn Marshall Upcoming Events of Note: Weekend Workshop – Old Time String Band September 26th – 27th @ Warren Wilson College Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: ‘Swannanoa Tunnel’ – Bryan Sutton ‘Swannanoa Waltz’ – Rayna Gellert Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
- 2 weeks ago46 min
S7E3 Guitar Guru & YouTube Star - Lessons with Marcel!
Liz talks with Marcel Ardans, the man behind ‘Lessons with Marcel’, about his unexpected journey from aspiring high school music teacher to successful bluegrass educator on YouTube. They dig into his practical—and reassuring!—ideas about practicing, teaching, and becoming a better musician, plus his newest adventure: co-directing a documentary exploring the fascinating world of competitive flatpicking. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Marcel Ardans ‘Lessons with Marcel’ YouTube channel Andy Hatfield’s ‘Turkey in the Straw’ Marcel’s lesson on ‘Turkey in the Straw’ Alan Shad’s ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Upcoming Events of Note: Earl Scruggs Music Festival – September 4th to 6th @ Mill Spring NC – We are Podcast In Residence Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Music in this Episode: Music is found on Marcel’s “Traitor” album California Pencil Pusher Tell us Earl’s Impact on You …. Click here to schedule time with Mike Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
- 3 weeks ago27 min
S7M2 Scruggs Fest Highlight: ReString Appalachia!
Mike learns all about ReString Appalachia – an organization dedicated to getting quality instruments back in the hands of those who lost them due to natural and economic disasters. Executive Director Nicholas Edward Williams traces ReString’s history from September 2024 when Hurricane Helene devastated Appalachia to today. We also get to meet and hear the music of Pickers Anonymous, Nick’s band. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Nicholas Edward Williams ReString Appalachia Pickers Anonymous Guitar Center Foundation American Songcatcher Podcast Upcoming Events of Note: Earl Scruggs Music Festival – September 4th to 6th @ Mill Spring NC Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Music in this Episode: All music is from Pickers Anonymous’ album “Patchwork” Policeman Cotton Mill Girls Hand Me Down My Walkin’ Cane Railroad Bill Wildwood Flower We are Podcast in Residence at Earl Scruggs Music Festival 2026 Tell us Earl’s Impact on You …. Click here to schedule time with Mike Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
- 3 weeks ago12 min
Special Edition - Guitaro 5000 at Grey Fox!
Another amazing Grey Fox story! Mike caught up with Reggie Guillaume – better known as Guitar 5000 – at Grey Fox where Reggie shared his vision and musical mission. This YouTube sensation asks random strangers a simple question – “Will you sing a song with me?”. An inspiring discussion filled with joy, hope, and musical bravery. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Guitaro 5000 Reggie’s YouTube Channel Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival Upcoming Events of Note: Swamp in the City Mini-Festival – September 29th @ Jalopy Theatre, Brooklyn Earl Scruggs Music Festival – September 4th to 6th @ Mill Spring NC – We are Podcast In Residence Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Music in this Episode: ‘Cherokee Shuffle’ – The Biscuit Eaters ‘You’ll Never Know’ – Reggie and Sandra Tell us Earl’s Impact on You …. Click here to schedule time with Mike Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
About Bluegrass BKLYN
Check out the vibrant bluegrass music scene here in Brooklyn, NYC - and beyond. Join your hosts Mike Willner and Liz Wolfe to meet the musicians and teachers, explore the venues and events, and share the stories and community in the Bluegrass Borough .... and beyond. We’ll talk classic bluegrass, bluegrass-adjacent music, vendors, instruments, jam camps, current events, gear ... you know, all the good stuff! So give a listen, we’ll have a fine old time.
Customized Recaps
AI-powered recaps with compact key takeaways, quotes, and insights.
Straight to Your Inbox
Get key takeaways from Bluegrass BKLYN in a 5-minute read.
Save Hours Every Week
Stay current on your favorite podcasts without falling behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Podzilla's Bluegrass BKLYN daily summary?
It's a free AI-powered email that summarizes new episodes of Bluegrass BKLYN as soon as they're published. You get the key takeaways, notable quotes, and links & mentions — all in a quick read.
How does the Bluegrass BKLYN podcast summary work?
When a new episode drops, our AI transcribes and analyzes it, then generates a personalized summary tailored to your interests and profession. It's delivered to your inbox every morning.
Is this an official Bluegrass BKLYN product?
No. Podzilla is an independent service that summarizes publicly available podcast content. We're not affiliated with or endorsed by Mike Willner.
Can I get summaries of other podcasts too?
Absolutely! The free plan covers up to 3 podcasts. Upgrade to Pro for 15, or Premium for 50. Browse our full catalog at /podcasts.
How often does Bluegrass BKLYN release new episodes?
Bluegrass BKLYN publishes every few days. Our AI generates a summary within hours of each new episode.
What topics does Bluegrass BKLYN cover?
Bluegrass BKLYN covers topics including News, Music, Commentary. Our AI identifies the specific themes in each episode and highlights what matters most to you.
Start getting Bluegrass BKLYN summaries tomorrow morning.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.