Episodes

  • Sara Sturgess

    Sara Sturgess
    Jan 23 2025
    In this heartfelt episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson sits down with Sara, a devoted Bruce Springsteen fan from New Jersey. Sara shares her personal journey, growing up immersed in a music-loving family and discovering Bruce Springsteen through her siblings. She recounts the transformative moments at Springsteen concerts, including her first show in 1984, and her emotional connection to his music over the years. Sara also reflects on her career changes and how Springsteen's lyrics have been a source of strength and inspiration. Tune in for an episode filled with personal anecdotes, deep connections, and an enduring love for the Boss. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:24 Sarah's Background and Family Life 02:48 Musical Influences Growing Up 06:37 Discovering Bruce Springsteen 10:28 First Bruce Springsteen Concert Experience 21:04 Reflecting on Bruce's Career and Personal Connection 25:41 Recent Concerts and Tour Thoughts 27:28 Reflecting on Concert Experiences 28:16 Max's Drumming and Candy's Room Workout 30:28 Springsteen on Broadway: A Memorable Experience 39:05 Chasing Songs and Special Performances 44:09 Music as a Companion Through Life's Challenges 47:16 The Mary Question and Final Thoughts Support the show here - buymeacoffee.com/setlustingbruce Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr
  • Jeff Mezydlo

    Jeff Mezydlo
    Jan 21 2025
    In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson interviews Jeff Mezydlo, a veteran journalist with a passion for classic rock, especially Bruce Springsteen. Jeff shares his extensive background in sports and entertainment writing, recounts his personal journey with music influenced by his older brothers, and delves deep into his admiration for Springsteen's storytelling and live performances. The discussion covers memorable concerts, cherished Springsteen songs, and Jeff's contributions to writing about Bruce Springsteen's music and influence. The conversation offers insights into the communal and generational aspects of being a Springsteen fan. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:48 Jeff's Background and Career 02:41 Sports Journalism Journey 04:36 Musical Influences and Early Life 05:58 Discovering Bruce Springsteen 15:28 Writing Career and Inspirations 18:08 Live Concert Experiences 21:53 The Magic of Springsteen's Performances 26:22 Reflections on Setlists and Performances 27:56 Challenges of Aging Rock Stars 29:17 Bruce Springsteen's Unique Approach to Setlists 32:10 Memorable Concert Experiences 33:18 Chasing the Perfect Setlist 36:01 Writing About Bruce Springsteen 39:11 The Emotional Connection to E Street Band 46:38 The Mary Question and Final Thoughts https://muckrack.com/jeff-mezydlo-1 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmezydlo26/ https://www.yardbarker.com/authors/jeff_mezydlo/143 https://www.facebook.com/jeff.mezydlo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    58 mins
  • Big Rick from RockTalk Studio

    Big Rick from RockTalk Studio
    Jan 16 2025
    In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson welcomes Rick from RockTalk Studio. The pair discuss their shared love for Bruce Springsteen while delving into Rick's background in the music industry and his journey into podcasting. Rick shares insights into his podcast, RockTalk Studio, which focuses on reviewing and recommending new rock and roll books and documentaries. The conversation covers Rick's musical upbringing, his experiences with live shows, and his favorite books and documentaries from the past year. They also touch on the upcoming Springsteen biopic and Rick's aspirations for future podcast episodes. https://rocktalkstudio.buzzsprout.com/ 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:52 Meet Rick from RickTalk Studios 01:57 Rick's Musical Journey 03:31 Discovering Bob Dylan 04:12 Bruce Springsteen's Influence 05:03 The Energy of Live Performances 12:43 Podcasting Origins 18:17 Interview Reflections and Future Guests 19:19 Thoughts on Upcoming Biopics 22:06 The Impact of Springsteen's Nebraska 22:33 Personal Music Journey 24:25 Podcasting and Community Building 26:57 Prince and Purple Rain 29:34 Diverse Rock and Roll Recommendations 31:18 The Merry Question and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
  • Michelle Barard - A Life of Sound and Stories

    Michelle Barard - A Life of Sound and Stories
    Jan 14 2025
    In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson welcomes Michelle Barard, founder of Michelle A. Barard LLC. The conversation diverges from their usual Bruce Springsteen focus to discuss Prince, entrepreneurship, coaching, and a range of other topics. Michelle shares her journey from growing up in New Orleans surrounded by diverse musical influences, to founding her own business and podcast. She also opens up about personal challenges, including a traumatic incident and how it shaped her priorities. The episode offers insights into the music industry, self-publishing, and personal resilience. For more about Michelle - https://michelebarard.com/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:02 Michelle's Background and Early Career 01:52 Musical Influences and Family Memories 04:21 College Years and Early Adulthood 16:06 Life in New Orleans and Moving Abroad 19:28 Podcast Journey and Writing Career 21:15 Podcasting Lessons Learned 22:32 Overcoming Trauma and Moving Forward 25:41 Journey into Book Publishing 28:01 Advice for Aspiring Authors 34:17 Creative Future and Personal Projects 37:14 Musical Tastes and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    49 mins
  • "Writing, Family, and Live Music: Raquel Drosos Returns"

    "Writing, Family, and Live Music: Raquel Drosos Returns"
    Jan 9 2025
    In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson welcomes back author Raquel Drosos. They discuss her latest book 'Like a Mom', a love story focused on the challenges of balancing parenthood and artistic pursuits. Raquel shares her personal inspiration for the novel, her writing process, and a memorable surprise from a Bruce Springsteen concert. The conversation also delves into the emotional connections music can evoke, emphasizing how specific songs like Springsteen's 'Radio Nowhere' and Counting Crows' 'Mr. Jones' resonate deeply with them. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Introduction 00:54 Raquel's Writing Journey 02:06 Feedback and Character Connection 02:49 The Power of Food and Memories 03:51 Bruce Springsteen Concert Experience 04:57 Gaslight Anthem Surprise 07:13 Community and Concert Highlights 12:13 Balancing Parenthood and Artistry 12:31 New Book: Like a Mom 19:07 Inspiration at the Playground 20:11 Exploring Parenthood and Social Dynamics 22:09 The Writing Process and Character Development 25:16 Realism and Reader Feedback 26:49 Future Projects and Creative Struggles 31:40 Self-Publishing Journey 34:34 The Power of Music in Writing 40:15 Final Thoughts and Farewell Find more about Raquel here https://raqueldrosos.com/ Support the show here - buymeacoffee.com/setlustingbruce Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • Rhonda Bernadette - Springsteen Fan Survey

    Rhonda Bernadette - Springsteen Fan Survey
    Jan 7 2025
    Join Jesse Jackson as he hosts Rhonda Bernadette, a dedicated Bruce Springsteen fan, in this exciting episode of 'Set Listing Bruce'. Rhonda shares her personal and professional journey, her deep connection to Springsteen's music, and her current endeavor of writing a book about Springsteen fans. From her early musical influences growing up in Southern California to her transformative high school years, and her increased admiration for Bruce after seeing him live numerous times, Rhonda's story is captivating. She also discusses her survey research aimed at understanding the impact of Springsteen's music on fans' lives. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to Springsteen's music, this episode is packed with heartfelt anecdotes and insightful discussions. Don't forget to stay tuned until the end for insights into Rhonda's favorite concerts, songs, and her unique perspective on whether Mary gets in the car at the end of 'Thunder Road'. Survey Link - https://form.fillout.com/t/x9EaCSUKj8us https://circuitrecords.com/ 00:00 Welcome to Set Listing Bruce 01:46 Meet Rhonda: A Journey Through Corporate America 03:51 Discovering Music: From The Beatles to Donny Osmond 07:12 Falling in Love with Bruce Springsteen 08:58 The Impact of Live Performances 19:06 The Springsteen Fan Survey 31:37 Fan Dedication and Personal Connections 33:30 Memorable Concert Experiences 34:03 Coping with Loss and COVID-19 34:45 Collecting Bruce Springsteen Memorabilia 35:53 The 2023 Tour and Setlist 37:15 Reflections on Bruce's Music and Legacy 49:52 The Mary Question and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Laura Alyn Ornelas

    Laura Alyn Ornelas
    Jan 2 2025
    In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson steps away from Bruce Springsteen to converse with author Laura Alyn Ornelas. Laura shares her multifaceted interests, including her work as a podcast host for 'Grounded Spirits' and 'ILA Radio,' her musical influences, and her path to becoming an author. They discuss Laura's upbringing, her evolving appreciation for her parents' music, and her writing process, which began with an imaginative scene that led to her first book, 'Monterey Passages Through Water.' Laura also talks about her upcoming book comparing Gabrielle Souchon and Taylor Swift, her fascination with astrology, and the personal and spiritual growth she has achieved through her creative endeavors. The conversation touches upon the balance of individual and collective identity, as well as Jesse and Laura’s interpretations of Bruce Springsteen's 'Thunder Road.' Tune in for an insightful discussion on creativity, personal exploration, and the meaningful connections between music and writing. 00:00 Welcome to Set Lusting Bruce 00:49 Meet Laura Alyn Ornelas: Author and Polymath 02:01 Laura's Musical Journey 04:55 Becoming an Author 10:37 Exploring Astrology and Spirituality 12:09 Podcasting Adventures 14:14 Deep Dive into Music and Creativity 15:52 Bruce Springsteen Discussion 20:59 Laura's Future Projects and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    36 mins
  • Springsteen 2024 Year in Review

    Springsteen 2024 Year in Review
    Dec 27 2024
    In our 1300 episode, Jesse Jackson and a panel of dedicated Bruce Springsteen fans - Shawn, Caroline, and Joyce - as they recap the highlights of the past year for The Boss in their second annual 'Springsteen in Review' episode. From emotional performances and significant releases to eagerly anticipated projects and personal anecdotes, this comprehensive discussion covers Bruce's health updates, his impactful political statements, and memorable collaborations. Dive into Bruce's enduring influence, his commitment to his craft, and what’s on the horizon for the legendary rocker. This is a must-watch for any Springsteen enthusiast looking to relive the key moments of the year and gear up for what's next. 00:00 Countdown to the New Year 01:06 Meet the Hosts and Panel 03:11 Springsteen Tour Highlights 04:51 Reflecting on Set Lists and Performances 09:39 Adele Springsteen's Passing 14:16 Greatest Night in Pop Documentary 21:12 Bruce on Curb Your Enthusiasm 24:14 Collaborations and Guest Appearances 45:37 Springsteen's Return to Touring 01:03:09 Reflecting on Bruce Springsteen's Decisions 01:04:02 Theories on Born in the USA Live Performances 01:04:41 Superman Trailer and Pop Culture Discussions 01:05:11 Stevie Van Zandt: A Fascinating Career 01:10:56 Bruce Springsteen's Future and Health Concerns 01:16:30 Tribute to Charles R. Cross and Backstreets Magazine 01:20:57 Jesse Mallon's Tribute Album and Road Diary 01:35:28 Bruce Springsteen's Political Involvement 01:42:52 Howard Stern Interview and Stand Up for Heroes 01:50:14 Elvis Presley Documentaries and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    2 hrs and 7 mins