Full STEAM Ahead

Full STEAM Ahead - STEAM Fund

Full STEAM Ahead is a new podcast series dedicated to uplifting and celebrating musicians, artists, and the venues that bring their work to life. Hosted by former radio personality and long-time friend Michelle Semerano joined by STEAM Fund co-founders Gary and Judy Siegel, the series aims to highlight powerful personal stories, promote upcoming performances, and shine a light on the creative heartbeat of our community.

Episodes

  1. 5d ago

    Mark Garro: Art, Imagination, Music & the Inner Universe

    Visionary art, illustration, jazz improvisation, spirituality, and creative imagination take center stage in this fascinating episode of Full STEAM Ahead. Gary and Judy Siegel welcome acclaimed artist, illustrator, musician, and painter Mark Garro for a conversation exploring creativity, philosophy, music, and the inner universe. Mark’s remarkable career spans more than four decades. After earning a full scholarship to Syracuse University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts, he created over 100 book covers for major publishers, including Are You Afraid of the Dark?, R.L. Stine’s Ghosts of Fear Street, Conan the Barbarian, and many other iconic titles. Over the past 20+ years, Mark has become internationally recognized for his deeply philosophical paintings exploring spirituality, evolution, duality, time, and the cosmos. His work has been exhibited internationally and featured in galleries including the renowned Copro Gallery in Santa Monica. An accomplished saxophonist and musician, Mark also shares how jazz, improvisation, and experimental music continue to shape his artistic vision and creative process. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about art, imagination, music, consciousness, and the limitless possibilities of creativity. Learn More & Get Involved: https://www.markgarro.com/ https://steamfund.org https://steamfund.org/#education https://steamfund.org/#mogaat https://steamfund.org/#new #FullSTEAMAhead #VisionaryArt #CreativeCommunity #Illustration #JazzMusic #SpiritualArt #ContemporaryArt #SupportTheArts #PodcastEpisode

    56 min

  2. May 18

    Bringing Scrap Metal to Life Through Art and Innovation

    Metal sculpture, stop-motion animation, and creative ingenuity take center stage in this episode of Full STEAM Ahead. Gary and Judy Siegel talk with  Zac Shavrick—aka Zacmax—a New York-based artist who transforms scrap steel into animated sculptures full of personality. Based in New York’s Sullivan Catskills, Zac has been welding since age five, blending traditional metalwork with stop-motion techniques. He shares the story behind “Billy the Grim Reaper,” from raw scrap to its final polyurethane-coated form, highlighting the craftsmanship and creativity behind his work. Zac’s art has been featured in galleries nationwide. He’s also the founder of the Flashburn Metal Art and Music Festival and is launching Zacmax Studios, offering welding and blacksmithing workshops to grow the creative community. Tune in to explore the fusion of art, engineering, and imagination—and how scrap metal becomes storytelling.  Learn More & Get Involved: https://www.zacmax.com https://www.flashburnfestival.com https://steamfund.org https://steamfund.org/#education https://steamfund.org/#mogaat https://steamfund.org/#new #artseducation  #fullsteamahead  #metalart   #Sculpture #StopMotion #CreativeCommunity #STEAMEducation #PodcastEpisode

    41 min

  3. May 18

    Todd & Adrian Perlmutter: Creativity, Community & the Revival of Parksville

    Catskills arts, community revitalization, live entertainment, and immersive events take center stage in this exciting episode of Full STEAM Ahead. Gary and Judy Siegel sit down with Todd and Adrian Perlmutter to explore how creativity and the arts are helping transform Parksville, New York. After connecting through their work on the Blue Man Group “Megastar” tour, Todd and Adrian moved full-time to the Catskills and launched the Parksville Arts Center in 2024. Their nonprofit organization brings together music, theater, film, immersive experiences, and community programming designed to inspire creativity and connection. From the Too Short To Suck Film Festival to the Parksville B’Kawk! Festival and the Decrepit Ghouls Variety Show, Todd and Adrian are creating imaginative events that bring new energy to the Sullivan Catskills while supporting artists, audiences, and local culture. Tune in for a fun and inspiring conversation about creativity, collaboration, independent arts, and the power of community-driven projects. Learn More & Get Involved: https://www.parksvilleartscenter.com https://steamfund.org https://steamfund.org/#education https://steamfund.org/#mogaat https://steamfund.org/#new #FullSTEAMAhead #CatskillsArts #CommunityRevitalization #IndependentFilm #LiveEntertainment #CreativeCommunity #SupportTheArts #PodcastEpisode #CommunityArts

    57 min

  4. Apr 27

    Building Community Through Contemporary Art

    Contemporary art, community engagement, and Catskill Art Space take center stage in this episode of Full STEAM Ahead. Gary and Judy Siegel sit down with Sally Wright to explore how art strengthens and connects communities. Located in Livingston Manor, NY, CAS is a vibrant cultural hub—featuring exhibitions, artist residencies, performances, and educational programs for all ages. Sally shares her journey from the Dia Art Foundation to leading one of the Catskills’ most dynamic creative spaces. Learn how CAS expands access to the arts with support from the New York State Council on the Arts and the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts—and why connecting art, place, and people matters more than ever. Tune in for a conversation on creativity, culture, and community through art.  Learn More: https://www.catskillartspace.org https://steamfund.org https://steamfund.org/#education https://steamfund.org/#mogaat https://steamfund.org/#new #FullSTEAMAhead #MusicEducation #ArtsEducation #CommunityImpact #SupportTheArts #PodcastEpisode

    47 min

  5. Apr 20

    STEAM Fund Spotlight: Expanding Arts, Education & Community Impact

    Music education, arts programs, and community impact are at the heart of this Season 2 premiere of Full STEAM Ahead. Guest host Paul Ciliberto interviews Gary Siegel and Judy Siegel to introduce viewers and listeners to the mission of the STEAM Fund, review highlights from Season 1, and preview the exciting programs coming this season. Gary and Judy share insights into STEAM Fund programs—including Arts in Education, songwriting initiatives, visiting artist outreach, youth programs, Social Emotional Learning, the Healthy Habits Initiative, Professional Development, and Mission One Gig At A Time (MOGAAT)—highlighting how these initiatives engage and enrich communities throughout the Sullivan Catskills, Hudson Valley, Southern Tier and beyond. Listeners will also hear about STEAM Fund’s collaborations with Catskill Art Space, the Shandelee Music FestivalWeekend of Chamber Music, and performances at SUNY Sullivan, illustrating how partnerships, grants, and community support help expand access to music and the arts. Tune in to discover how STEAM Fund is transforming music education, supporting musicians, artists, and venues, and building stronger communities—and learn how you can support these efforts. Learn More: STEAM Fund Homepage: https://steamfund.org STEAM Fund Educational Opportunities: https://steamfund.org/#education STEAM Fund MOGAAT (Mission One Gig At A Time): https://steamfund.org/#mogaat STEAM Fund News: https://steamfund.org/#new #FullSTEAMAhead #MusicEducation #ArtsEducation #CommunityImpact #SupportTheArts #PodcastEpisode

    34 min

  6. Jan 18

    The Price of Happiness: Miranda Hardy on Legacy, Friendship, & Finding Your Voice

    Perfect for listeners interested in songwriting, musicians, creative community, folk music, and artistic legacy, this deeply personal episode of Full STEAM Ahead features singer-songwriter, producer, and community builder Miranda Hardy. For co-hosts Gary and Judy Siegel, this conversation comes full circle—Miranda grew up just down the street in Liberty, New York, spent many of her formative years in their home, and is one of their daughter Georgia’s closest friends. The daughter of legendary folk musician and Fast Folk founder Jack Hardy, and acclaimed radio host and Folk Alliance Hall of Famer Angela Page, Miranda shares her journey from a successful decade-long career in advertising back to music. She reflects on her debut album Reverie and her latest release, The Price of Happiness, which explores authenticity, ambition, and the courage it takes to choose your own path. Beyond performing and recording, Miranda builds creative community through Songwriter Nights, leads songwriting workshops for families impacted by cancer through Theatre Within, and carries forward the tradition of song circles—reimagined for today. A moving conversation about music, legacy, friendship, and finding your voice. Links & Resources:   Miranda Hardy’s Music Website -https://www.mirandahardymusic.com  Miranda Hardy Music Merch -https://www.mirandahardymusic.com/shop  The Price of Happiness - https://www.mirandahardymusic.com/product-page/the-price-of-happiness-deluxe-cd  The Guiness Song (Bring It Straight Away) - https://open.spotify.com/track/6xhnh6zr6NGX6lApeovZQi?si=0cdaed186eb4478c  Theatre Within Website - https://www.theatrewithin.org  Dive Bars NYC -https://divebarnyc.com  STEAM Fund Homepage - https://steamfund.org/  Donate to the STEAM Fund -https://cfosny.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create?funit_id=1400  Educational Opportunities - https://steamfund.org/#education  MOGAAT (Mission One Gig At A Time) - https://steamfund.org/#mogaat

    46 min

  7. 12/22/2025

    Slam Allen – Music More Than Sound: It’s Soul, Spirit, and Connection

    In this blues- and soul-driven episode of Full STEAM Ahead, Gary and Judy Siegel sit down with internationally acclaimed blues artist Slam Allen to explore how music becomes soul, spirit, and connection. From his roots in the family legacy of The Allen Brothers to leading the band for the legendary James Cotton, Slam shares a life shaped by rhythm, resilience, and purpose. Blending the fire of James Brown, the soul of Otis Redding, and the guitar mastery of B.B. King, Slam reveals how he delivers more than music—he delivers joy and unity. This episode dives into his creative process, his philosophy of universal connection, and his mission to spread love through the power of the blues. Links & Resources: ● Slam Allen’s Website - https://www.slamallen.com/ ● Donate to the STEAM Fund ● STEAM Fund Homepage ● MOGAAT (Mission One Gig At A Time) ● STEAM Fund News

    42 min

  8. 12/15/2025

    The Levins: Music, Community, and Harmony Across Generations

    Perfect for fans of folk musicians, music philanthropy, songwriting, and community music programs, this episode of Full STEAM Ahead welcomes husband-and-wife duo The Levins. Ira and Julia share their journey from open-mic nights in California to performing around the world, blending music, faith, and social consciousness into their harmony-driven sound. Co-hosts Gary and Judy Siegel explore how The Levins use music to uplift, heal, and connect communities, the creative process behind their new album An Alternate Refrain, and the intergenerational programs they lead in schools and families. Through personal stories and reflections, listeners gain insight into the power of music, partnership, and compassion. A celebration of folk music, collaboration, and the transformative impact of art, this episode shines a light on music’s ability to bridge cultures and generations. Links & Resources:  The Levins Music Website  The Levins YouTube Channel  Donate to the STEAM Fund  STEAM Fund Homepage  Educational Opportunities  MOGAAT (Mission One Gig At A Time)  STEAM Fund News

    42 min

  9. 12/08/2025

    Keeping the Spirit Alive: Barbara O’Brien on Levon Helm, The Midnight Rambles, and Musical Legacy

    Perfect for fans of musicians, live music, music legacy, Woodstock NY, and music philanthropy, this episode of Full STEAM Ahead features a heartfelt conversation with Barbara O’Brien, Levon Helm’s longtime manager and the driving force behind the legendary Midnight Rambles at his home in Woodstock. Co-hosts Gary and Judy Siegel explore Barbara’s incredible journey — from the early days of the Rambles to her stewardship of Levon Helm Studios — and how she helped keep Levon’s music, spirit, and community alive. Barbara shares personal stories of collaboration, creativity, and resilience that reveal the heart behind one of America’s most cherished musical traditions. A moving tribute to Levon Helm, this episode celebrates the enduring power of community, generosity, and the love of live music. Links & Resources: Levon Helm Studios - https://levonhelm.com The Midnight Rambles - https://levonhelm.com/ramble Donate to the STEAM Fund - https://steamfund.org/#donate STEAM Fund Homepage - https://steamfund.org

    41 min

  10. 12/01/2025

    Dreaming in Slambovian: Joziah Longo on Songwriting, Storytelling, and the Magic of Music

    Perfect for listeners who love songwriting, musicians, creative music, folk rock, and storytelling, this episode of Full STEAM Ahead features a heartfelt conversation between co-hosts Gary and Judy Siegel and Joziah Longo, visionary frontman of the Slambovian Circus of Dreams. From his early days performing Dylan covers in Philadelphia to playing at iconic venues like CBGB’s and Carnegie Hall, Joziah shares stories of creativity, resilience, and imagination. He reflects on the making of The Book of Better Things, the magic behind the annual Slambovian Christmas Show, and a preview of the band’s upcoming studio album. A celebration of music, community, and creativity, this episode captures what it means to live a life inspired by art, generosity, and the power of song. Links & Resources: 🎪 Slambovian Circus of Dreams 🎵 Donate to the STEAM Fund 🌐 STEAM Fund Homepage

    51 min

  11. 11/24/2025

    A Life in Rhythm: Thurman Barker on Innovation, Legacy, and Creative Music

    Dive into jazz, creative music, musicians, music education, and music philanthropy with legendary drummer, composer, and educator Thurman Barker in this episode of Full STEAM Ahead. Thurman shares his extraordinary journey from Chicago’s R&B, blues, and jazz scene to performing with icons like Marvin Gaye and Cecil Taylor, reflecting on rhythm, improvisation, and resilience along the way. As a founding member of the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM), Thurman discusses innovation, experimentation, and his decades-long impact as a professor at Bard College mentoring the next generation of musicians. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz fan or new to Thurman’s work, this episode offers an intimate look at musical legacy, creative evolution, and the enduring power of rhythm. Links & Resources: Thurman Barker Official Website - upteeproductions.comAACM | HomeDonate to the STEAM Fund - https://cfosny.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create?funit_id=1400STEAM Fund Homepage - home - STEAMFUND.ORG

    1h 3m

  12. 11/18/2025

    The Story of the STEAM Fund – Past, Present & Future

    In this premiere episode of *Full STEAM Ahead*, host Michelle Semerano sits down with Gary and Judy Siegel, co-founders of the STEAM Fund, to share the inspiring story of music philanthropy and the Fund’s mission to support artists and creative communities. From their families’ deep roots in music and community service to the pivotal moments that led to the creation of the STEAM Fund, this episode explores how strategic arts funding can empower musicians, artists, and venues while sustaining creativity and connection in the community.   Listeners will hear about the resilience, generosity, and vision that drive the STEAM Fund’s initiatives, as well as the impact of supporting music education and community arts programs. This heartfelt conversation is perfect for anyone interested in giving back through the arts, supporting local musicians, or learning how creative philanthropy can make a lasting difference.  Links:  - [Donate to the STEAM Fund](https://cfosny.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create?funit_id=1400)   - [STEAM Fund Homepage](https://steamfund.org)   - [Educational Opportunities](https://steamfund.org/#education)   - [MOGAAT (Mission One Gig At A Time)](https://steamfund.org/#mogaat)   - [STEAM Fund News](https://steamfund.org/#news)

    46 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

Full STEAM Ahead is a new podcast series dedicated to uplifting and celebrating musicians, artists, and the venues that bring their work to life. Hosted by former radio personality and long-time friend Michelle Semerano joined by STEAM Fund co-founders Gary and Judy Siegel, the series aims to highlight powerful personal stories, promote upcoming performances, and shine a light on the creative heartbeat of our community.

Information

  • Creator
    Full STEAM Ahead - STEAM Fund
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Full STEAM Ahead
  • Show Website
    Full STEAM Ahead