Episode Details

In this episode, Matt sits down with Michael, one-third of the indie folk trio Oliver Hazard, for a deep and honest conversation about the band’s unlikely rise, their connection to small-town Ohio, and the realities of life on the road.

Michael shares the full origin story — from scribbling goals in the mountains of California, to a spontaneous dive bar show, to winning a studio contest with a fake band name, and ultimately signing with Network Records.

They also dive into the creation of Oliver Hazard Day, the importance of giving rural communities access to the arts, and the surreal experience of playing Newport Folk Festival after years of persistence.

Finally, they explore the mental health challenges that touring musicians face, how Oliver Hazard stays grounded on the road, and the songs on their upcoming record that they’re most proud of.

Topics include:

• The true history behind the name “Oliver Hazard”
• How a last-minute dive bar show led to a record deal
• Building a music festival in a town of 2,000
• What it really takes to tour as an indie band
• Mental health tools for artists
• Playing Newport Folk Festival
• New music coming in 2024–2025

If you love indie folk, artistic transparency, or stories about building something meaningful from nothing — this is a must-listen.

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