{"podcast":{"title":"Americana Curious","slug":"americana-curious-6927062","podcast_index_feed_id":6927062,"rss_url":"https://feeds.captivate.fm/americana-curious/","website_url":"https://americana-curious.captivate.fm","image_url":"https://artwork.captivate.fm/d1d1e57a-ffa6-41eb-acd2-19bdad505b4e/YpyXMhN8SSh5rCrXyEzsF_tC.jpg","author":"Ben Fanning & Zach Schultz","episode_count":79,"summary":"The podcast that unearths hidden Americana gems, shares untold stories from legends, and proves music still has the power to move us all. If you believe Americana music can transform the world, you’re in the right place. Too many overlook its raw beauty and power to connect, heal, and inspire. We spotlight the artists carrying that torch — unsung heroes writing the soundtrack to something bigger. Each week, hosts Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz bring you intimate, entertaining conversations with artists changing the world one song at a time — like Old Crow Medicine Show, Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors, The Wood Brothers, American Aquarium, Toad the Wet Sprocket, and rising stars you’ll soon love. You’ll discover: • New music to love • Hard-earned lessons from the road • The stories behind your favorite songs • Big inspiration — and a good laugh Join us to celebrate the voices, values, and stories that keep Americana alive — and prove why music still matters.","last_synced_at":"2026-09-14T22:17:19.912101+00:00","page_url":"https://stenobird.com/podcast/americana-curious-6927062"},"episode":{"title":"Where Does Live Music Still Feel Personal?","slug":"where-does-live-music-still-feel-personal","published_at":"2026-08-02T18:30:00+00:00","page_url":"https://stenobird.com/podcast/americana-curious-6927062/where-does-live-music-still-feel-personal","show_page_url":"https://stenobird.com/podcast/americana-curious-6927062","url":"https://americana-curious.captivate.fm/episode/where-live-music-still-feels-personal","audio_url":"https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/66021f4e-e485-41be-930e-638f29c46c50.mp3","summary":"Do bigger venues create bigger experiences—or do they take us further away from the music? In this episode of Americana Curious , Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz debate whether arenas have changed the live music experience for the worse and share the intimate venues that have left the biggest impression on them. From Charleston's beloved Pour House and Nashville's legendary Robert's Western World to First Avenue in Minneapolis, Red Rocks, the Ryman Auditorium, and hidden gems you've probably never heard of, they explore why some venues create unforgettable nights while others simply host concerts. Along the way, they share stories about seeing artists like John Prine, Brandi Carlile, Charlie Crockett, American Aquarium, Mount Joy, Hiss Golden Messenger, Mason Jennings, and many more—and explain why discovering music in small venues may be one of the best investments any music fan can make. In this episode you'll discover: Why small venues often create deeper connections between artists and audiences The independent venues every Americana fan should visit How outdoor venues transform the live music experience Bucket-list music destinations across America Why supporting local venues helps keep live music alive for future generations Whether you're planning your next concert road trip or simply looking for your next favorite venue, this episode will inspire you to get closer to the music—and stay curious. Also follow us and join the conversation on Instagram and YouTube.","meta_description":"Do bigger venues create bigger experiences—or do they take us further away from the music? In this episode of Americana Curious , Ben Fanning and Zach Sch…","key_points":[],"chapters":[],"topics":[],"duration_seconds":2220,"processing_state":"not_requested","actions":[{"name":"request_transcript","method":"POST","url":"https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/americana-curious-6927062/episodes/where-does-live-music-still-feel-personal/transcription-requests","description":"Idempotently request low-priority transcript generation for this episode."},{"name":"read_markdown","method":"GET","url":"https://stenobird.com/podcast/americana-curious-6927062/where-does-live-music-still-feel-personal.md","description":"Read the agent-friendly Markdown representation of this episode resource."}]}}