The Hook with Johni & Jess

Jess Ellett & Johni Baird

Hosted by Jess and Johni, The Hook features candid conversations with musicians, artists, entertainers, and creatives of all kinds. We go beyond the surface to explore the real stories behind the art — the first spark, the turning point, the doubt, the obsession, and the moments that changed everything. Just like a hook in a song stays with you, every creative has something that grabbed hold and shaped who they became. This isn’t just about what artists create.  It’s about why they couldn’t stop. 🎙 Interviews 🎸 Live performances 🎣 Real stories behind the craft Once you’re in, you’re in.

  1. Jul 23

    Roads, Reeds & Rhythm: The Gary Green Story

    Send Johni & Jess a text From hitchhiking the East Coast with a harmonica in his pocket to performing on some of the most iconic stages in America, Gary Green has lived a life that sounds more like a movie script than a résumé. In this episode of The Hook with Johni & Jess, Gary shares the incredible journey that took him from teaching himself harmonica on the side of the road to winning at the World Harmonica Championships, performing at the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium, and collaborating with musicians around the globe. Along the way, he opens up about playing alongside Jimmy Buffett, performing with the cast of The Dukes of Hazzard, working with Afghan musicians through a U.S. State Department cultural exchange program, and engineering sound for legends including B.B. King, Kris Kristofferson, Mavis Staples, George Thorogood, Yo-Yo Ma, Chick Corea, and many more. Gary's passion for music extends far beyond performance. Whether he's talking about the art of supporting songwriters, the magic that happens between performer and audience, or the unexpected lessons learned through travel and cultural connection, every story reveals a deep appreciation for the power of music to bring people together. This conversation is packed with road stories, behind-the-scenes music industry insights, harmonica geekery, and unforgettable moments from a career spent chasing great songs and meaningful connections. If you've ever wondered what happens when talent, curiosity, and a harmonica collide, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Links & Social Media Gary Green Official Website Gary Harmonica Green YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@cvilletunes Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at:  https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.

    Roads, Reeds & Rhythm: The Gary Green Story
  2. Jul 16

    Rewriting the Story with Tyson Leamon

    Send Johni & Jess a text In this episode of The Hook, Johni and Jess sit down with Tennessee singer-songwriter Tyson Leamon for a conversation that spans faith, family, redemption, and a lifelong passion for music. Tyson shares stories from his earliest days singing gospel music in church at just three years old, traveling the country with his family quartet, and eventually finding his own sound—a blend of country, Southern rock, Americana, and gospel influences inspired by artists like Chris Stapleton, Teddy Swims, Jason Crabb, and The Allman Brothers. The conversation dives into the deeply personal story behind his powerful song Who I Am, which chronicles his journey through addiction, recovery, and finding his way back to faith. Tyson opens up about the role music played in his healing process, the people who stood by him when life was at its lowest, and how songwriting became both therapy and testimony. Along the way, Tyson reflects on sharing stages with artists including the Kentucky Headhunters, Confederate Railroad, Shenandoah, Diamond Rio, Craig Campbell, Mo Pitney, and Oliver Anthony. He also talks about performing at legendary venues like Nashville's Bluebird Cafe, his dream of one day stepping onto the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium, and the lessons he's learned from artists who have remained authentic in an ever-changing industry. Listeners will also get a behind-the-scenes look at Tyson's upcoming acoustic album, recorded along the banks of Tennessee's Hiwassee River at Stump City Studios, as well as his passion project, Riverside Rhythms, which aims to help independent artists find opportunities outside the traditional music industry machine. From viral moments with Noah Peters, the Singing Barber, to conversations about family, faith, and what success really means, Tyson reminds us that sometimes the greatest achievements aren't found in fame or record deals—they're found in staying true to who you are. If you love authentic storytelling, powerful songwriting, and artists who aren't afraid to share the real story behind the music, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Want more Tyson Leamon? https://www.tysonleamonmusic.com/ IG https://www.instagram.com/tysonleamon YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@tysonleamonmusic FB https://www.facebook.com/TysonLeamonMusic/ Listen & Follow: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6c8BsQ41qt32BaLRzllDJo Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/tyson-leamon/965333496 Amazon Music: https://www.amazon.com/music Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at:  https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.

    Rewriting the Story with Tyson Leamon
  3. Jun 22

    A Coruscating Conversation with The Lonely Teardrops

    Send Johni & Jess a text The Lonely Teardrops bring their signature blend of mod garage, surf rock, soul, punk attitude, and country heart to The Hook with Johni & Jess for a conversation that’s as colorful and energetic as their music. Joining us in the studio are founder, lead vocalist, and guitarist Katie Teardrop, bassist Simon Hall, drummer Ricky Tubb, and saxophonist Bryan Condra. Together, they share the story behind the band’s name, the evolution of their sound since forming in 2005, and how a group of musicians with diverse backgrounds came together to create something uniquely their own. From international adventures and punk rock roots to spontaneous stage moments and the magic of live performance, this episode dives into the personalities, friendships, and creative chemistry that fuel The Lonely Teardrops. The band opens up about their songwriting process, the role of visual storytelling in music, the happy accidents that become fan-favorite moments, and why getting audiences up and dancing is always the goal. Plus, hear hilarious stories from the road, behind-the-scenes insights into their band dynamic, and why they believe the best music happens when you embrace the unexpected. If you love garage rock, surf-inspired sounds, soulful melodies, and bands that know how to turn every show into a stop-and-shake dance party, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Follow The Lonely Teardrops for upcoming shows, new music, and more unforgettable dance parties. thelonelyteardrops.com https://www.facebook.com/thelonelyteardrops https://www.instagram.com/thelonelyteardrops Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at:  https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.

    A Coruscating Conversation with The Lonely Teardrops
  4. Jun 11

    434: Loud, Proud, and Unapologetic

    Send Johni & Jess a text This week on The Hook, Johni and Jess sit down with Virginia hard rock band Four Thirty Four (434) for a conversation that's equal parts music, mayhem, and brotherhood. Born from the Charlottesville music scene and named after Central Virginia's iconic area code, 434 shares the story behind the band's evolution, their unexpected reunion after a 20-year hiatus, and the personal losses that helped shape their music and perspective on life. From playing major festivals like Blue Ridge Rock Festival to climbing independent radio charts, these guys prove that authentic rock and roll is alive and well.  The conversation dives into songwriting, life on the road, the meaning behind their music, and why audiences connect so deeply with their live shows. Along the way, you'll hear stories involving gummy mishaps, mysterious suitcase thefts, hard nipples, Waffle House adventures, and a whole lot of laughter. Because with 434, the music is serious—but they definitely don't take themselves too seriously.  If you love powerful riffs, meaningful lyrics, and bands that truly live what they preach, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Follow 434: 🌐 Website: https://www.434music.com 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/434Music 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/434music 🎵 Spotify: Search 434 Listen now and discover why 434 is making noise far beyond the 434 area code.  Thank you to our Official Episode Sponsors:  River City Consulting  Award Winning Website Design, Logo Design, Brad Strategy & Digital Marketing since 2001. Use code "The Hook" for 15% off all services.  Youthful Beginnings Med Spa  Offering a wide range of therapeutic services designed to relax, pamper and  improve your well-being.  Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at:  https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.

    434: Loud, Proud, and Unapologetic
  5. Jun 5

    Josh Pavlock: How "Checked Out" Became Reality

    Send Johni & Jess a text What does it take to turn a lifelong dream into a feature film? This week on The Hook with Johni & Jess, we sit down with Josh Pavlock, founder of Osprey Media Studios and the writer, producer, and director behind the independent thriller Checked Out. Josh shares the incredible six-year journey from mowing his lawn and deciding to make a movie, to filming a feature-length thriller, building a cast and crew, navigating the challenges of editing, and preparing for film festival submissions.  Along the way, we talk about:  Why he traded his dream sports car for a movie budget  The surprising challenges of casting, directing, and editing  How a sinking boat nearly derailed production  The reality of making an independent film from the ground up  Why collaboration matters more than control  The future of Checked Out and the trilogy already in the works  Advice for aspiring filmmakers who don't know where to start Plus, Josh shares his favorite films, directors, soundtracks, and the philosophy that helped him bring his vision to life: "Don't wait. Go make a movie." Whether you're a filmmaker, creative entrepreneur, storyteller, or someone sitting on a dream you've been putting off, this episode is packed with inspiration, behind-the-scenes insight, and proof that it's never too late to bet on yourself. 🎬 Learn more about Checked Out and Osprey Media Studios, and hear how one idea grew into a full-fledged filmmaking journey.  Monsters performed by TJ Peterson  Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at:  https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.

    Josh Pavlock: How "Checked Out" Became Reality
  6. May 26

    Healing Through Sound, Learning Through Music | Stanley Jordan

    Send Johni & Jess a text In this unforgettable episode, we sit down with legendary guitarist Stanley Jordan for a conversation that goes far beyond music. Known around the world for his groundbreaking two-handed touch technique and his ability to completely reimagine the guitar, Stanley opens up about creativity, consciousness, healing, collaboration, and the deeper purpose of art in today’s world. From working with icons like Quincy Jones, George Martin, Kenny Rogers, and Dave Matthews, to performing live music during surgeries and exploring music therapy, Stanley shares stories and perspectives that are as profound as they are inspiring. We talk about: • The emotional power of music and why art matters more than ever • His experiences with Quincy Jones, George Martin, and Kenny Rogers • Playing live in operating rooms to help patients and medical teams • Music, meditation, math, science, and the connection between sound and healing • His upcoming project Stanley Jordan’s Big Party Super Band at CrossMill Arts • The philosophy behind his long-awaited new album Feather in the Wind • Why musicians need to “get back into the real world” and create together again This episode is heartfelt, thought-provoking, funny, emotional, and deeply human — the kind of conversation that stays with you long after it ends. And yes… Stanley even talks about the iconic scene from Blind Date with Bruce Willis and Kim Basinger, where he performed live on set as their chemistry unfolded in real time. Once you’re hooked, there’s no going back. Learn more about Stanley Jordan  Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at:  https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.

    Healing Through Sound, Learning Through Music | Stanley Jordan
  7. May 16

    Front Porch Soul & Backstage Stories with Steve Bassett

    Send Johni & Jess a text From front porch soul to backstage stories with music legends, this episode of The Hook with Johni & Jess takes listeners deep into the extraordinary life and career of Virginia music icon Steve Bassett. Steve joins Johni and Jess for a candid, funny, and deeply personal conversation about the moments that shaped his journey—from Richmond clubs and The Hazards to the legendary rooms of New York, Muscle Shoals, and beyond. Along the way, he shares unforgettable stories about crossing paths with names like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, B.B. King, Dr. John, Paul Shaffer, Doc Pomus, Jerry Wexler, and Delbert McClinton—and what it was really like being there while music history was unfolding around him. The episode dives into Steve’s memoir Sing Loud, the life-changing moment John Hammond Sr. told him, “I’ve never heard a white man sing like that,” and the winding road that eventually led to co-writing Sweet Virginia Breeze—the official state song of Virginia. But more than anything, this episode is about soul. About music as identity. About the unexpected pivots, wild stories, love, longevity, and learning how to build a life inside an industry that rarely slows down. Raw, reflective, hilarious, and packed with incredible behind-the-scenes stories, this is one of those conversations that reminds you why longform interviews matter. Once you’re hooked… there’s no going back. To learn more about Steve, visit Steve Bassett Music and follow him on Facebook. Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at:  https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.

    Front Porch Soul & Backstage Stories with Steve Bassett
  8. May 1

    Dead Armadillos & Cosmic Energy with Mary McNeill & Fluffy

    Send Johni & Jess a text On this episode of The Hook with Johni & Jess, we sit down with visual artist Mary McNeill and music industry veteran Fluffy for a conversation that refuses to stay in one lane—in the best way. Behind the scenes, they serve as Band Manager (Mary) and Tour Manager (Fluffy) for Tim Reynolds and TR3, bringing the music to life far beyond the stage. From the raw and unexpected to the deeply spiritual, this episode dives into how creativity actually shows up in real life… not polished, not perfect, but built through experience, loss, reinvention, and everything in between. Mary pulls us into her imaginative, almost otherworldly artistic space—where emotion, energy, and meaning live just beneath the surface. At the same time, Fluffy brings the stories most people never hear—the long nights, the road, the chaos, and the reality of what it takes to keep the music going. Because every song you hear has a story—and a crew behind it grinding to make it happen. In this episode, you hear from two of those people—the ones in the vans, backstage, and behind the curtain. The ones carrying the weight, solving the problems, and keeping the show alive when no one’s watching. Together, we get into the energy that connects it all—the seen, the unseen, and the moments that shape who we become as creators and as people. To explore more of Mary’s work, visit: https://marymcneillart.com/  You can follow Mary on social media at: FB at www.facebook.com/mary.mcneill.737  IG at https://www.instagram.com/marymcneillart/ Follow Fluffy on IG at www.instagram.com/fluffysucks This one’s a little gritty, a little cosmic… and exactly what The Hook is all about. Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at:  https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.

    Dead Armadillos & Cosmic Energy with Mary McNeill & Fluffy

Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Hosted by Jess and Johni, The Hook features candid conversations with musicians, artists, entertainers, and creatives of all kinds. We go beyond the surface to explore the real stories behind the art — the first spark, the turning point, the doubt, the obsession, and the moments that changed everything. Just like a hook in a song stays with you, every creative has something that grabbed hold and shaped who they became. This isn’t just about what artists create.  It’s about why they couldn’t stop. 🎙 Interviews 🎸 Live performances 🎣 Real stories behind the craft Once you’re in, you’re in.