The Rick Dollar Show Podcast!

Rick Dollar
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Music Commentary
  • Updated Daily

🎙️ Rick Dollar — Voice of Appalachia, Architect of Authentic Radio Rick Dollar is a seasoned broadcaster, storyteller, and cultural curator whose passion for music, heritage, and human connection has shaped a dynamic career spanning over a decade. As the founder and owner of Radio Dog Productions, Rick has built a media empire rooted in authenticity, heart, and the vibrant spirit of Appalachia. He is the creator and host of the Rick Dollar Show, a syndicated radio program and podcast that blends interviews with musicians, athletes, and cultural icons with Rick’s signature humor and insight.

  1. Sep 10

    Jamie Grascal Johnson Discusses the Real Dolly Parton

    Jamie “Grascal” Johnson is a respected bluegrass singer, guitarist, and songwriter best known as a founding member of The Grascals. His long friendship and musical partnership with country legend Dolly Parton led The Grascals to open for and perform as part of Dolly’s touring band, including her celebrated 2004–05 tour. Together, they have shared the stage, recorded music, and co-written songs that reflect their love of bluegrass, country music, and inspiring others through song.

    Jamie Grascal Johnson Discusses the Real Dolly Parton

  2. Sep 5

    Jim Pankey Tells All!

    Jim Pankey is a veteran bluegrass banjo player and educator from Chatsworth, Georgia, with nearly 50 years behind the instrument. His driving, tasteful style is rooted in the tradition of Earl Scruggs while shaped by decades of performing, teaching, and studying American roots music. Since 1977, Jim has been helping thousands of students worldwide master the 5-string banjo. Often called "The Bob Ross of the Banjo," he brings the same encouraging, approachable spirit to his lessons—celebrating "happy accidents" and making the instrument accessible to players at every level. His YouTube channel and online lessons have built an international following, and he's been a contributor to The Banjo Newsletter as well as faculty at respected camps including Steve Kaufman's Acoustic Kamp and the Maryland Banjo Academy. As a performer, Jim is the banjo player for Barefoot Nellie & Company along with Bluetastic Fangrass, and he regularly performs in an old-time fiddle & banjo duo for contra-dances and other events. He's also shared the stage with many of today's finest acoustic musicians and earned numerous contest titles across the Southeast. Whether leading a hard-driving breakdown, backing a heartfelt ballad, or guiding a beginner through their first roll, Jim brings experience, authenticity, and infectious enthusiasm to everything he does.

    Jim Pankey Tells All!

  3. Aug 31

    Summer Brook Ponders her Bright Future!

    Summer Brook is a talented singer and entertainer best known as one half of Summer & Bray and as a member of the popular Mountain Faith Band. With her powerful vocals, genuine Appalachian roots, and engaging stage presence, Summer has become a recognizable name in the bluegrass, country, and Americana music communities. Summer and her family’s musical journey gained national attention when Mountain Faith Band appeared on NBC’s America’s Got Talent, where they introduced their unique blend of bluegrass, country, and contemporary music to millions of viewers across the country. As a member of Mountain Faith Band, Summer has performed on stages throughout the United States, sharing the traditions of Appalachian music while bringing a fresh, modern energy to the genre. Her voice and musicianship have helped make the band a favorite among bluegrass and roots-music audiences. Summer is also featured in Summer & Bray, continuing her musical journey with a sound that combines Appalachian tradition, bluegrass, country, and contemporary influences. Whether performing with Mountain Faith, Summer & Bray, or appearing as a guest artist, Summer Brook brings authenticity, talent, and a passion for music to everything she does. Summer Brook represents the next generation of Appalachian-rooted artists—honoring the music of the past while helping take it into the future.

    Summer Brook Ponders her Bright Future!

  4. Aug 10

    Spencer Hatcher, Carrying Country Music Forward One Stage at a Time

    Virginia-born country singer Spencer Hatcher is one of the emerging artists making his mark on today’s country music scene. With a deep appreciation for authentic country music and a growing presence on the national touring circuit, Hatcher is quickly becoming an artist to watch. Hatcher is currently touring with country music sensation Zach Top as well as legendary country star Hank Williams Jr., performing for audiences across the country and sharing stages with some of the biggest names in the business. Rooted in Virginia and influenced by the traditions that have shaped country music for generations, Hatcher brings a fresh perspective and youthful energy to the genre while staying connected to its authentic roots. His work on the road alongside established country artists is providing him with an opportunity to reach new audiences and continue developing his own career as a recording and performing artist. Hatcher recently sat down with Rick Dollar for an interview on The Rick Dollar Show Podcast, where he discussed his music, life on the road, and his experiences working alongside some of country music's most respected performers. As his touring schedule continues to expand and his name reaches more country music fans, Spencer Hatcher represents a new generation of Virginia country artists carrying the music forward—one stage at a time.

    Spencer Hatcher, Carrying Country Music Forward One Stage at a Time

  5. Jul 30

    The Rick Dollar Show Podcast-Carly Greer

    From her beginnings in Wheeling, West Virginia, Carly Greer has emerged as one of the most exciting young voices in country and bluegrass music. Her musical journey began at just 12 years old when she co-wrote her first song, "West Virginia Moonlight," with her mother. The song was later recorded in Nashville, launching a songwriting career that has since produced more than 300 original songs. A gifted vocalist and storyteller, Carly continues to make her mark as a solo artist with a growing catalog of original country music, including "Tallulah," "Save The First Dance," "Rhinestone Cowgirl," and her newest releases, "Greener on the Other Side" and "Being Poor." Whether performing country or bluegrass, Carly's authentic lyrics and expressive vocals connect with listeners through songs rooted in real life and heartfelt emotion. Carly is equally respected in the bluegrass community. As the former lead vocalist of the award-winning bluegrass band Crandall Creek, she helped lead the group to widespread acclaim, including 2024 Josie Music Awards for Group of the Year (Bluegrass) and Music Video of the Year (Female) for "Just 18." She also earned back-to-back IBMA Momentum Vocalist of the Year nominations in 2024 and 2025, recognizing her as one of bluegrass music's brightest emerging talents. Her accomplishments continue to grow. In 2025, Carly received Josie Music Award nominations for Vocalist of the Year (Modern Country) and Songwriter of the Year (Personal & Pitching - Female), while Crandall Creek also received a nomination for Group of the Year (Bluegrass). In 2024, she was additionally nominated for Female Country Vocalist of the Year and Best Performance in a Music Video (Female) for "Just 18." These honors reflect her versatility as a performer, songwriter, and recording artist across multiple genres. Away from the stage, Carly graduated with high honors from West Virginia University with a degree in Business Marketing. As she prepares to relocate to Nashville in the fall of 2026, she continues to build a career defined by exceptional songwriting, powerful vocals, and a passion for creating music that resonates with audiences everywhere.

    The Rick Dollar Show Podcast-Carly Greer

  6. Jul 24

    The Rick Dollar Show Podcast-Professor Dan Boner

    Dr. Daniel Boner is a Professor and the Program Director of the Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies at East Tennessee State University (ETSU). He earned his bachelor's degree in music from ETSU in 2006, where he was an active member of the ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band, performing at venues such as the Smithsonian Folklife Festival and touring internationally. (aamearts.org) After graduation, Dr. Boner joined ETSU's faculty as an adjunct instructor and later became the assistant director of the program. In 2010, he succeeded Raymond McLain as the program director. (aamearts.org) Under his leadership, the program has achieved significant milestones, including its 40th anniversary in 2022. (dc.etsu.edu) Dr. Boner has been involved in over 50 recordings and has performed with notable artists such as Ralph Stanley, Jesse McReynolds, Alison Krauss, Ricky Skaggs, and Porter Wagoner. (aamearts.org) He has also collaborated with Japanese scholar Takeharu Kunimoto, recording three albums and performing across the United States and Japan. (aamearts.org) In 2021, Dr. Boner produced and performed on the single "When the Water Goes Down," which charted in the top 20 and was considered for the International Bluegrass Music Association’s 2021 Collaborative Recording of the Year. (aamearts.org) He continues to contribute to the growth and recognition of ETSU's Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies program, fostering a rich environment for students and the community.

    The Rick Dollar Show Podcast-Professor Dan Boner

  7. Jul 19

    The Rick Dollar Show Podcast-Lisa Truitt

    Hopeless Holler is a dedicated print shop located in Advance, Indiana. We specialize in creating high-quality merchandise and apparel that resonates with musicians, fans alike, and everyone in between. At Hopeless Holler, One Style Fits All.

    The Rick Dollar Show Podcast-Lisa Truitt

  8. Jul 10

    The Rick Dollar Show Podcast-Banjo Brothers Podcast

    Duane Hess has dedicated more than four decades to preserving and promoting traditional bluegrass, gospel, and classic country music through broadcasting, podcasting, and live performance. A lifelong advocate for America's acoustic music traditions, he has earned a reputation for his knowledge of bluegrass history, respect for its pioneers, and passion for introducing audiences to both legendary and emerging artists. As co-host of The Banjo Brothers Podcast, Duane conducts engaging conversations with many of the most respected names in bluegrass music, giving listeners an inside look at the stories, careers, and music of today's leading performers. His thoughtful interviewing style and genuine love for the music have made the podcast a growing destination for bluegrass fans around the world. In addition to podcasting, Duane has spent years behind the microphone as a radio broadcaster, producing and hosting programs that celebrate traditional bluegrass, bluegrass gospel, and classic country music. His goal has always been to preserve the music's rich heritage while helping new generations discover the timeless sound that has inspired audiences for decades. Away from the microphone, Duane is an accomplished bluegrass musician and an award-winning Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) competition pitmaster. Whether performing, interviewing artists, or sharing stories from the road, he brings the same enthusiasm and authenticity to every endeavor. Today, Duane continues to champion traditional music through broadcasting, podcasting, and special projects dedicated to preserving the legacy of bluegrass while supporting its future. His lifelong commitment to the music and the people who create it has made him a respected voice within the bluegrass community.

    The Rick Dollar Show Podcast-Banjo Brothers Podcast
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About

🎙️ Rick Dollar — Voice of Appalachia, Architect of Authentic Radio Rick Dollar is a seasoned broadcaster, storyteller, and cultural curator whose passion for music, heritage, and human connection has shaped a dynamic career spanning over a decade. As the founder and owner of Radio Dog Productions, Rick has built a media empire rooted in authenticity, heart, and the vibrant spirit of Appalachia. He is the creator and host of the Rick Dollar Show, a syndicated radio program and podcast that blends interviews with musicians, athletes, and cultural icons with Rick’s signature humor and insight.

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