Famous Interviews & Neon Jazz with Joe Dimino

Jeff Cosgrove Interview | Two Jeffs (2026) | Veteran Jazz Drummer on Collaboration, Improvisation & New Music

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Sat, 4 Jul 2026 13:24:06 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with veteran jazz drummer, composer, and bandleader Jeff Cosgrove.

On this episode, we discuss the launch of Two Jeffs, the first installment in an ambitious four-part digital album series scheduled for release over the next year. The project celebrates longtime friendships, creative partnerships, and the spirit of improvisation through a stellar ensemble featuring Jeff Lederer on saxophone, clarinet, flute, and vocals, Mark Lysher on bass, and Tom Teasley on percussion.

Unlike many jazz artists who settle in major music centers, Jeff has intentionally built his career away from cities like New York, drawing inspiration from quieter communities. After spending nearly two decades in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, he now calls Middletown, Maryland home—an environment that has profoundly shaped his musical philosophy, creativity, and approach to collaboration.

During our conversation, we explore the making of Two Jeffs, the power of long-term musical relationships, free improvisation, creative independence, composing outside the mainstream, rural life, and the evolving landscape of contemporary jazz.

For fans of adventurous jazz, creative improvisation, and thoughtful conversations with today's leading musicians, this is an interview you won't want to miss.

Learn more and get the album:
https://www.jeffcosgrovemusic.com/
https://motiansickness.bandcamp.com/album/two-jeffs

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Diana Fernandez Interview | YMU Studio, Free Music Education & Empowering the Next Generation of Artists

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Sat, 4 Jul 2026 13:22:40 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Diana Fernandez, YMU Studio Manager and Internship Coordinator in Miami, Florida.

On this episode, we explore the inspiring work happening at YMU Studio, a one-of-a-kind multimedia recording studio that gives students across Miami-Dade County free access to professional music production, recording, and real-world music industry education.

As YMU Studio Manager, Diana oversees every step of the student recording experience—from studio sessions and production to electronic press kits (EPKs), music distribution, publishing rights, and industry internships. What makes the program truly unique is its student-first philosophy: YMU takes 0% of the revenue generated from student recordings, allowing students to retain full ownership and royalties of their music.

The studio's mission is to prepare aspiring musicians, producers, engineers, and creators for successful careers in the music industry by providing hands-on experience in a professional environment while removing financial barriers to access.

During our conversation, Diana discusses the vision behind YMU Studio, mentoring young artists, music education, artist development, internships, recording technology, the changing music business, empowering the next generation of creators, and why investing in young talent matters now more than ever.

If you're passionate about jazz, music education, recording studios, artist development, or the future of independent music, this is an inspiring conversation you won't want to miss.

Learn more about YMU Studio:
https://ymu.org/

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Loren Broaddus Interview | Blackout (2026) | Kansas City Jazz French Horn, Piano & Composition

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Sat, 4 Jul 2026 10:01:18 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Kansas City-based jazz French horn player, pianist, composer, and improviser Loren Broaddus.

On this episode, we dive into his compelling 2026 album Blackout and explore his evolving musical journey in one of America's greatest jazz cities.

Originally from Springfield, Missouri, Loren began playing piano at age six before discovering the French horn at eleven. Since relocating to Kansas City in 2023, he has quickly become an active presence on the local jazz scene, performing at renowned venues including The Blue Room, Corvino, Vine Street Brewing Co., Westport Bowery, Homer's Coffee House, Urban Café, and The Shop Cigar Lounge.

As one of the few musicians leading with the French horn in modern jazz, Loren is committed to creating a deeply personal musical voice through improvisation, composition, and fearless artistic exploration. His latest album, Blackout, showcases that vision with original music that blends contemporary jazz, lyrical storytelling, inventive harmony, and expressive improvisation.

In this conversation, we discuss the making of Blackout, building a career in Kansas City's thriving jazz community, composing for French horn, balancing piano and horn performance, influences, creativity, improvisation, and the future of modern jazz.

Whether you're a fan of contemporary jazz, jazz composition, unique instrumental voices, or the Kansas City music scene, this is an inspiring conversation you won't want to miss.

Learn more about Loren Broaddus:
https://lorenbroaddus.my.canva.site/

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Sharada Shashidhar Interview | A Foot on the Ground (2026) | Jazz, Indian Classical & Experimental Music

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 10:27:54 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Los Angeles-based vocalist, composer, producer, and multidisciplinary artist Sharada Shashidhar.

On this episode, we dive into her captivating 2026 album A Foot on the Ground and explore her unique artistic journey through jazz, Indian classical music, experimental sound, and contemporary composition.

Released on Colorfield Records, A Foot on the Ground was recorded at Lucy's Meat Market Studio with engineer Pete Min and features an outstanding lineup of collaborators, including acclaimed pianist Benny Bock, Grammy-winning drummer Mark Guiliana, and saxophonist Devin Daniels.

Sharada's music blends the emotional depth of jazz with the rich traditions of Indian classical music, creating a distinctive sound that is both intimate and adventurous. As an active voice in the Los Angeles experimental jazz community, she has collaborated with a wide range of innovative artists and performed throughout the United States and Europe, continually pushing creative boundaries through improvisation, songwriting, and production.

In this conversation, we discuss the inspiration behind A Foot on the Ground, her compositional process, balancing tradition and innovation, recording the new album, life as an independent artist, the Los Angeles jazz scene, collaboration, improvisation, and the evolving landscape of modern jazz.

If you enjoy contemporary jazz, vocal improvisation, global influences, experimental music, or discovering groundbreaking new artists, this interview is for you.

Get the album:
https://sharadashashidhar.bandcamp.com/album/a-foot-on-the-ground

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Todd Mosby & Jeff Weber Interview | American Heartland (2026) | Missouri-Inspired Jazz Masterpiece

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 2 Jul 2026 18:01:35 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed St. Louis-based guitarist, composer, and recording artist Todd Mosby and Grammy Award-winning producer Jeff Weber.

On this episode, we take a deep dive into the ambitious and inspiring 2026 album American Heartland, a musical journey designed to capture the soul, spirit, beauty, and character of Missouri through a remarkable blend of contemporary jazz, folk, New Age, acoustic guitar, blues, and jazz-rock influences.

Created with a vision of assembling world-class musicians to tell a uniquely American story, American Heartland features an extraordinary cast of legendary performers, including Vinnie Colaiuta, Tom Scott, Leland Sklar, Luis Conte, and many others. The project was recorded primarily at the iconic Village Studios and mastered at the legendary Bernie Grundman Studios, ensuring world-class sound from start to finish.

The album also features the contributions of associate producer and score supervisor Michael Clark, helping shape a deeply cinematic and emotionally resonant listening experience that celebrates the landscapes, culture, and spirit of the American Midwest.

In this conversation, Todd and Jeff discuss the inspiration behind American Heartland, the creative process, working with elite musicians, recording sessions in Los Angeles, Missouri's musical legacy, contemporary instrumental music, jazz fusion, production techniques, and the power of music to tell regional stories.

This is a fascinating discussion about artistry, collaboration, and creating music that honors place, heritage, and human connection.

Get the album:
https://toddmosby.bandcamp.com/

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Adee Azrad Interview | Hypnosis, Subconscious Reprogramming, Neuroscience & Personal Transformation

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 2 Jul 2026 16:03:44 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with transformational hypnotist, subconscious reprogramming expert, and founder of Braingazim, Adee Azrad.

Adee specializes in helping people identify and transform deeply rooted subconscious patterns that may influence confidence, relationships, emotional well-being, and personal growth. Through a combination of hypnosis, neuroscience-informed techniques, nervous system regulation, and subconscious reprogramming, she works with clients to examine limiting beliefs and develop healthier thought and behavior patterns.

After overcoming significant personal challenges in her own life, Adee became passionate about helping others reconnect with their inner strengths and create meaningful, lasting change. Her work blends modern neuroscience with practical approaches to mindset and self-development, offering individuals tools to better understand themselves and move forward with greater clarity and resilience.

In this conversation, we explore hypnosis, subconscious beliefs, emotional patterns, nervous system regulation, confidence, mindset, personal transformation, healing, self-awareness, resilience, and what it takes to create sustainable change from the inside out.

Whether you're interested in psychology, personal development, mindset, neuroscience, coaching, or hypnosis, this is a fascinating discussion filled with practical insights and inspiring stories.

Learn more about Adee Azrad and Braingazim:
https://braingazim.com/

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Ted Chubb Interview | Live at the Statuary – Jersey City (2026) | Jazz Trumpeter, Composer & Educator

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 2 Jul 2026 04:47:09 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed New Jersey-based jazz trumpeter, composer, educator, and bandleader Ted Chubb.

On this episode, we dive into his outstanding 2026 live album, Live at the Statuary – Jersey City, and explore a remarkable career devoted to performance, education, and building a thriving jazz community.

For more than two decades, Ted Chubb has been a driving force in the Jersey City jazz scene. As a bandleader, composer, artistic director, educator at Princeton University, and co-owner of The Statuary, he has helped create a vibrant home for live jazz while mentoring the next generation of musicians.

Born in Ashtabula, Ohio, Ted grew up in a deeply musical family where piano-centered gatherings sparked his love for music. His artistic path was forever changed after discovering Miles Davis' 'Round About Midnight and Lee Morgan with Art Blakey on A Night in Tunisia. Those legendary recordings helped shape the melodic, bebop, and blues-rooted style that defines his playing today.

During our conversation, we discuss the making of Live at the Statuary – Jersey City, the importance of live performance, jazz education, building community through music, balancing teaching and performing, the influence of jazz legends, improvisation, and the enduring power of straight-ahead jazz.

If you love modern jazz, hard bop, live recordings, or discovering today's leading trumpet voices, this is an interview you won't want to miss.

Get the album and learn more:
http://www.tedchubb.com/

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Lisa Renee Pitts Interview | A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical Comes to Kansas City July 2026

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Wed, 1 Jul 2026 17:44:04 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Lisa Renee Pitts, cast member of the hit Broadway national tour, A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical.

As the acclaimed production prepares for its Kansas City engagement at Starlight Theatre from July 7–12, 2026, Lisa shares her remarkable journey from her Brooklyn roots to performing in one of America's most celebrated musical productions. Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A Beautiful Noise tells the inspiring true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became one of the biggest recording artists and performers in music history.

Packed with timeless classics including "Sweet Caroline," "America," "Cracklin' Rosie," "Song Sung Blue," "I Am... I Said," and many more, the production celebrates the life, music, and enduring legacy of Neil Diamond through unforgettable performances and spectacular staging.

During our conversation, Lisa talks about joining the national touring cast, growing up in Brooklyn, meeting Neil Diamond after a performance, life on the road, performing for audiences across America, bringing the show to Kansas City, and what makes this musical resonate with fans of every generation.

Recorded while the tour was making a stop in Hershey, Pennsylvania, this interview offers an inside look at one of Broadway's biggest touring productions before it arrives in Kansas City.

Learn more about the musical:
https://abeautifulnoisethemusical.com/

Get Kansas City tickets at Starlight Theatre:
https://tickets.kcstarlight.com/beautiful-noise

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Doug Johnston Interview | Choosing Emotions, Lexicography, Psychology & Defining 272 Human Emotions

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Wed, 1 Jul 2026 16:44:30 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with author, expert lexicographer, former corporate executive, litigation consulting expert, and world champion sailor Doug Johnston.

Doug joins us to discuss his groundbreaking book, Choosing Emotions, the culmination of nine years of interdisciplinary research into one of humanity's most enduring questions: What exactly are emotions?

Drawing from more than 3,000 years of recorded thought, Choosing Emotions presents the first comprehensive cross-disciplinary reference defining 272 everyday emotional states. The work synthesizes ideas from philosophy, psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, science, literature, art, and spiritual traditions to create an entirely new way of understanding the emotional landscape of human experience.

Before becoming an author, Doug built a distinguished career in banking, private equity, and litigation consulting while also earning recognition as a world champion sailor. His unique background gives him a practical and analytical perspective on motivation, decision-making, communication, and emotional intelligence.

In this fascinating conversation, we explore the origins of Choosing Emotions, why emotional vocabulary matters, how language shapes human behavior, emotional intelligence, psychology, philosophy, neuroscience, personal growth, and what understanding emotions can teach us about ourselves and others.

Whether you're interested in psychology, leadership, self-improvement, communication, linguistics, or human behavior, this is a conversation filled with insight and practical wisdom.

Enjoy this interview.

Get the book and learn more:
https://choosingemotions.com/

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Andrew Ingkavet Interview | Former MTV VJ, Musicolor Method, Superpowers Through Music & Music Education

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Wed, 1 Jul 2026 16:16:58 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with former MTV VJ, music education innovator, author, entrepreneur, and founder of the Musicolor Method, Andrew Ingkavet.

Andrew is the visionary behind a revolutionary approach to music education that has transformed the lives of thousands of children around the world. After beginning his career in music and television as an MTV VJ, he followed his passion by building one of the world's most innovative music education programs, helping children develop confidence, creativity, resilience, and lifelong learning skills through music.

His upcoming book, Superpowers Through Music, explores how music education goes far beyond learning an instrument. It demonstrates how music helps children build focus, emotional intelligence, problem-solving abilities, confidence, and the adaptability needed to thrive in today's rapidly changing world.

Andrew's work has been especially impactful for neurodivergent learners, homeschool families, and students who benefit from creative, personalized learning environments. Through the Musicolor Method, he has reimagined how music can become a powerful tool for cognitive development, emotional growth, and academic success.

In this conversation, we discuss his fascinating journey from aspiring rock star to MTV personality, the founding of the Musicolor Method, entrepreneurship, innovative education, child development, creativity, homeschooling, neurodiversity, leadership, and the lifelong impact of music.

This is an inspiring conversation for parents, educators, musicians, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in unlocking human potential through creativity.

Enjoy this interview.

Learn more about Andrew Ingkavet:
https://andrewingkavet.com/

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Jussi Lampela Interview | Common Ground (2026), Finnish Jazz Composer, Ambient Jazz & Electronica

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Wed, 1 Jul 2026 04:41:24 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed Finland-based composer, arranger, and bandleader Jussi Lampela.

On this episode, we dive into his outstanding 2026 album, Common Ground, an immersive musical journey that blends contemporary jazz, ambient music, and electronica into a rich and cinematic listening experience. The album showcases Lampela's unique compositional voice, seamlessly combining atmospheric textures, sophisticated jazz harmony, orchestral sensibilities, and modern production.

Known for his work across film, television, and the concert stage, Jussi has built an impressive career composing, orchestrating, and arranging music for ensembles of every size—from intimate duos to full symphony orchestras. His ability to move effortlessly between genres has made him one of Finland's most versatile and innovative musical creators.

During our conversation, we discuss the inspiration behind Common Ground, composing for jazz ensembles, writing for film and television, orchestration, arranging, the European jazz scene, ambient music, electronica, creativity, and how today's musical landscape encourages artists to blur traditional genre boundaries.

Enjoy this interview.

Get the album:
https://jussilampelaensemble.bandcamp.com/album/common-ground

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Jaana Narsipur Interview | 2026 Album The Re-Collection, Reimagining '80s Pop Through Jazz & Her Career

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 18:28:58 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with India-born, New York City-based jazz vocalist Jaana Narsipur.

On this episode, we explore her captivating new 2026 album, The Re-Collection, a fresh and imaginative jazz interpretation of beloved 1980s pop classics. Featuring inspired arrangements of songs by Kate Bush, Eurythmics, Joe Jackson, and other iconic artists, Jaana transforms familiar favorites into sophisticated modern jazz performances filled with swing, improvisation, and emotional depth.

Following her acclaimed 2022 debut album, Better Than Anything, which showcased original arrangements honoring jazz legends Horace Silver and Bob Dorough, Jaana continues to establish herself as one of today's most inventive jazz vocalists.

Born in India and raised in the United States, Jaana's musical journey began at an early age, singing along to Simon & Garfunkel before embracing traditional Indian music with her family. During college in Chicago, she discovered jazz through jam sessions, immersing herself in the city's rich jazz tradition while developing her unique voice as an interpreter, arranger, and storyteller.

In this conversation, we discuss The Re-Collection, arranging pop music for jazz ensembles, vocal improvisation, the influence of Indian and American musical traditions, growing as an artist, the New York jazz scene, and her creative process.

If you enjoy vocal jazz, creative arrangements, contemporary jazz, or hearing classic pop songs transformed through the language of jazz, this episode is for you.

Enjoy this interview.

Get the album:
https://jaananarsipur.bandcamp.com/

The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/

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Christian Dillingham Interview | Grammy-Winning Jazz Bassist on As It Relates to Now (2026)

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 18:24:56 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Grammy Award-winning jazz bassist, composer, educator, and bandleader Christian Dillingham.

On this episode, we discuss his outstanding 2026 release, As It Relates to Now, an album featuring eight original compositions performed by a stellar trio with acclaimed alto saxophonist Greg Ward and drummer Jeremy Cunningham. Together, they create a compelling musical landscape that moves effortlessly between groove-driven modern jazz, blues-infused expression, and adventurous improvisation.

A cornerstone of Chicago's vibrant creative music scene, Christian Dillingham has built an impressive career spanning both jazz and classical music. His artistry has led him to perform and record alongside some of today's most respected musicians, including Sean Jones, Jeff "Tain" Watts, John Legend, Peter Bernstein, Kevin Mahogany, Dee Alexander, Bobby Broom, and Mike Reed.

In this conversation, we explore the inspiration behind As It Relates to Now, composing original music, improvisation, the evolution of Chicago jazz, collaboration, balancing jazz and classical traditions, life as a working musician, and where modern jazz is headed.

Whether you're a longtime jazz fan, bassist, student, or simply love discovering outstanding new music, this episode offers an inside look at one of today's most respected creative voices.

Enjoy this interview.

Get the album:
https://shiftingparadigmrecords.bandcamp.com/album/as-it-relates-to-now

The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/

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James McGowan Interview | Threads of Fate, 2026 Jazz Album, Greek Mythology & Large Ensemble Jazz

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 18:23:08 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed Canadian jazz pianist, composer, arranger, and bandleader James McGowan.

On this episode, we explore his stunning new 2026 album Threads of Fate, the tenth recording as a leader and the third featuring the acclaimed James McGowan Ensemble (JME)—a dynamic 14-piece group that seamlessly blends horns, strings, and rhythm section into a cinematic modern jazz experience.

Building on the ambitious musical vision established with Reaching In (2023) and Reaching Out (2024), Threads of Fate takes listeners even deeper into narrative composition. Inspired by the timeless Greek myth of the Three Fates, the project was developed alongside KingDom Theatre as part of an innovative physical theatre production that premiered at Canada's National Arts Centre in Ottawa in 2025.

The album combines orchestral textures, contemporary jazz, dramatic storytelling, and expressive improvisation into a powerful artistic statement that bridges jazz, theater, mythology, and modern composition.

During our conversation, James discusses composing for large ensembles, collaborating across artistic disciplines, bringing mythology into contemporary jazz, leading a 14-piece ensemble, his creative process, Canadian jazz, and the evolution of one of today's most imaginative large-group composers.

Whether you're a fan of big band jazz, contemporary composition, orchestral jazz, or cinematic storytelling through music, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Enjoy this interview.

Get the album and learn more:
https://jamesmcgowan.ca/threads_of_fate

The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/

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Basya Schechter Interview | Songs of Desire, Pharaoh's Daughter, John Zorn's Tzadik & Global Jazz

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 18:19:54 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed New York-based vocalist, composer, multi-instrumentalist, and bandleader Basya Schechter of Pharaoh's Daughter.

On this episode, we dive into her remarkable 2026 album Songs of Desire, released on John Zorn's legendary Tzadik Records. More than an album, Songs of Desire is the culmination of an extraordinary 18-year creative journey that transforms the biblical Song of Songs into a deeply personal exploration of sacred love, longing, spirituality, and cross-cultural musical expression.

Known for her pioneering work at the crossroads of Jewish music, world music, jazz, experimental composition, and global traditions, Basya has spent decades creating music that transcends genres and borders. On Songs of Desire, she blends Hebrew, Arabic, Yiddish, French, Spanish, and English lyrics with jazz-informed improvisation, Middle Eastern influences, devotional music, avant-garde composition, and deeply emotional storytelling.

In this conversation, we discuss the inspiration behind the album, the long creative process, working with Tzadik Records, John Zorn's influence, Jewish musical traditions, global music, improvisation, songwriting, spirituality, travel, and the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music.

This is a fascinating conversation about artistic courage, cultural connection, sacred expression, and one of the most ambitious releases of 2026.

Enjoy this interview.

Get the album:
https://pharaohsdaughterband.bandcamp.com/album/songs-of-desire

The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/

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Erica von Kleist Interview | Picc Pocket, Piccolo Flute Jazz, New 2026 Album & Modern Jazz

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 18:17:24 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed jazz multi-instrumentalist, composer, educator, and bandleader Erica von Kleist.

On this episode, we dive into her groundbreaking 2026 album Picc Pocket, an innovative recording that boldly places the piccolo flute front and center in a modern straight-ahead jazz setting. While the piccolo has occasionally appeared in jazz history, it has rarely served as the primary voice of a small ensemble. With Picc Pocket, Erica expands that tradition, presenting an exciting collection of original, high-energy compositions that showcase the instrument's expressive range, technical brilliance, and lyrical beauty.

Known for her versatility as a saxophonist, flutist, piccolo specialist, composer, arranger, and educator, Erica continues pushing the boundaries of contemporary jazz while remaining deeply rooted in the tradition. Picc Pocket demonstrates how imagination, exceptional musicianship, and fearless creativity can redefine an instrument's role in modern jazz.

In this conversation, we discuss the inspiration behind the album, composing for piccolo flute, jazz arranging, improvisation, education, recording, performing, the evolution of today's jazz scene, and the creative process behind one of 2026's most unique jazz releases.

Whether you're a jazz musician, flutist, educator, or simply a fan of adventurous modern jazz, this conversation offers fascinating insights into artistry, innovation, and musical exploration.

Enjoy this interview.

Get the album and learn more:
https://www.ericavonkleist.com/piccpocket

The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/

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Jai Roza Interview | Eden's Conflict Card Game, Faith, Creativity & Biblical Learning

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 18:06:16 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with designer, entrepreneur, and creator of Eden's Conflict, Jai Roza.

Jai is the founder of Eden's Conflict LLC, a company dedicated to making Scripture more engaging, interactive, and accessible through creativity and innovative educational tools. What began as a side project in 2016 has grown into his full-time mission: helping people deepen their understanding of God's Word through games, music, practical lessons, and other creative experiences.

At the heart of this vision is Eden's Conflict, a strategy-based card game designed to encourage players to engage with biblical themes, faith, and Scripture in a fresh and meaningful way. More than entertainment, the game seeks to inspire individuals and families to strengthen their faith while developing critical thinking, creativity, and a deeper appreciation of biblical teachings.

In this conversation, we discuss entrepreneurship, game design, Christian creativity, biblical education, faith-based innovation, business growth, storytelling, discipleship, family learning, and the journey of turning a passion project into a thriving business.

Jai also shares his vision for inspiring a new generation to discover purpose, wisdom, and creativity through the timeless principles found in Scripture.

This is a compelling conversation about faith, innovation, entrepreneurship, and using creativity to make learning both meaningful and memorable.

Enjoy this interview.

Learn more about Jai Roza and Eden's Conflict:
Eden's Conflict Official Website

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Javier Llerena Interview | Leadership Development, Mental Fitness, Innovation & Positive Leadership

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:41:46 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with leadership development coach, keynote speaker, podcast host, and anti-human trafficking advocate Javier Llerena.

Javier is the founder of Re-Invent Consulting, where he helps leaders, executives, and organizations unlock higher levels of performance through leadership development, mental fitness, collaboration, and innovation. His work is especially focused on empowering middle-aged men and leadership teams to develop resilience, strengthen communication, and achieve sustainable success both professionally and personally.

As a certified facilitator and instructional designer, Javier combines practical leadership strategies with an energetic and engaging coaching style that has helped organizations dramatically improve teamwork, productivity, and workplace culture. His mission is to help leaders become more intentional, adaptable, and effective in today's rapidly changing world.

Beyond leadership coaching, Javier is a passionate advocate in the fight against human trafficking, using his platform to promote awareness, compassion, and meaningful action. A hybrid athlete and devoted fan of wire-haired dachshunds, he brings authenticity, enthusiasm, and a deep commitment to service into every aspect of his work.

From his home in California, we discuss leadership, mental fitness, entrepreneurship, resilience, innovation, coaching, purpose, personal growth, advocacy, and the mindset required to build stronger organizations and healthier lives.

This is an inspiring conversation for leaders, entrepreneurs, coaches, and anyone looking to maximize their personal and professional potential.

Enjoy this interview.

Learn more about Javier Llerena:
Positive Leadership Academy Podcast

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Birgitta Visser on New Books, Spiritual Awakening, Soul Healing & Much More | 2026 Edition

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:15:16 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we welcome back soul empowerment coach, author, speaker, divine channel, light language healer, and founder of Power Soul Healing, Birgitta Visser.

We first caught up with Birgitta in 2022 when she joined us from the UK. Now, in 2026, she returns from her home in Spain to discuss her continued spiritual journey, the evolution of her work, and the growing collection of books that have inspired readers around the world.

Our conversation explores several of her acclaimed titles, including Child of the Sun: Enroute to Enlightenment in India, a deeply personal memoir chronicling her spiritual awakening and transformative experiences in India.

We also discuss BE-com-ing Authentically Me: Lighting the Spark of Inspiration Back into the Heart of your Luminous Soul BEing, which blends memoir, spiritual guidance, and practical wisdom to help readers reconnect with their authentic selves through healing, consciousness, and self-discovery.

The conversation continues with Divine Rebirth: Stories of Spiritual Awakening, Surrender and Rebirth, a collaborative collection exploring transformation, resilience, surrender, and personal awakening through powerful real-life stories.

We also discuss her 2024 release, I'm So Glad You Left Me, and explore themes of healing, relationships, forgiveness, resilience, consciousness, intuition, spirituality, and navigating life in today's rapidly changing world.

Birgitta shares insights from years of helping people reconnect with their inner wisdom through soul empowerment, energy healing, and spiritual practices designed to inspire authentic living and personal transformation.

It's wonderful to welcome her back for another thoughtful and inspiring conversation.

Enjoy this interview.

Learn more about Birgitta Visser and her books:
Power Soul Healing Official Website

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Reid Zeising Interview | GAIN, Health-Tech Innovation, AI, Leadership & Entrepreneurial Growth

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:09:55 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with entrepreneur, health-tech innovator, and CEO of GAIN Servicing, Reid Zeising.

Reid leads a rapidly growing health-tech company operating at the intersection of healthcare payments, insurance, complex injury claims, and legal services. Under his leadership, GAIN has expanded into a 120+ person organization, leveraging an AI-enhanced platform that connects attorneys, healthcare providers, and injured plaintiffs to streamline care, improve communication, and help move cases forward efficiently.

What makes Reid's leadership philosophy unique is his belief that the way founders operate personally directly impacts how their companies perform. He has built his success around discipline, consistency, gratitude, and personal growth. From maintaining a daily gratitude journal shared with a group of fellow entrepreneurs to embracing challenging experiences like swimming with sharks, Reid continuously seeks opportunities to strengthen resilience, mindset, and leadership capacity.

In this conversation, we discuss entrepreneurship, health-tech innovation, artificial intelligence, leadership, company culture, resilience, personal habits, business growth, healthcare systems, startup scaling, founder mindset, and the lessons learned from building a company in a highly regulated industry.

We also explore how personal discipline, gratitude, and intentional routines can translate into stronger execution, healthier organizations, and sustainable business success.

From global travel experiences to reshaping an industry through innovation, Reid shares an inspiring journey filled with practical wisdom and entrepreneurial insights.

Enjoy this interview.

Learn more about Reid Zeising and GAIN:
GAIN Servicing Official Website

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Dr. NaTasha Jordan Interview | Organizational Psychology, Leadership, Founder Burnout & Business Growth

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:32:27 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with organizational psychologist, Air Force veteran, executive advisor, and founder of Hold The Line, Dr. NaTasha Jordan.

Dr. Jordan specializes in helping founder-led companies navigate the challenges of rapid growth, particularly businesses scaling through the $5M–$10M range. Her work focuses on a critical insight that many leaders overlook: personal performance and business performance are often the same problem. When founders are struggling beneath the surface, their organizations frequently reflect those challenges.

Drawing on her experience as a former Vice President at VaynerX, Air Force veteran, and organizational psychologist, Dr. Jordan has advised leaders in Fortune 50 boardrooms while also helping entrepreneurs and teams operating at the speed of modern culture and innovation.

Through her leadership methodology, she helps founders identify hidden barriers to growth, improve decision-making, strengthen organizational culture, prevent burnout, and create sustainable success. Her work bridges psychology, leadership development, business strategy, and human performance in ways that drive meaningful transformation.

In this conversation, we discuss entrepreneurship, leadership, founder psychology, business growth, organizational behavior, company culture, resilience, executive performance, personal development, and what it takes to build thriving businesses without sacrificing personal well-being.

From her base in Virginia, Dr. Jordan shares practical wisdom and powerful insights for leaders navigating today's complex business landscape.

Enjoy this fascinating interview.

Learn more about Dr. NaTasha Jordan:
Dr. NaTasha Jordan Official Website

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John Weathington Interview | Grow Your Business UP!, Leadership Strategy & Building High-Performance Cultures

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:07:26 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with executive coach, leadership strategist, management consultant, and author John Weathington.

With more than three decades of experience helping organizations grow and thrive, John has become a trusted advisor to executives, entrepreneurs, and leadership teams across a wide range of industries. His latest book, Grow Your Business UP!, provides practical strategies for creating stronger organizations, developing leaders, and building sustainable growth.

Throughout his distinguished career, John has worked with leaders at major organizations including Chevron, Salesforce, Wells Fargo, Adobe, Cisco, and Dell Technologies. His expertise spans leadership development, organizational design, executive coaching, team effectiveness, culture transformation, and strategic business growth.

John's approach focuses on creating people-centered organizations where leadership, innovation, accountability, and culture work together to drive long-term success. Drawing on decades of consulting experience and research-based methodologies, he helps leaders navigate complexity while building stronger teams and healthier organizations.

In this conversation, we discuss leadership, business growth, organizational culture, executive coaching, team development, strategy, innovation, employee engagement, and the key lessons behind Grow Your Business UP!.

Whether you're a CEO, entrepreneur, manager, business owner, or aspiring leader, this episode delivers practical insights that can be applied immediately.

It's an excellent conversation full of wisdom and experience.

Enjoy this interview.

Learn more about John Weathington:
XM Systems Official Website

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Valerie Johns Interview | Night Flights, Dreams, Soul Retrieval & The Poetry of the Unconscious

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:06:13 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we welcome back veteran psychotherapist, writer, and gifted poet Valerie Johns for a fascinating conversation about her new 2026 book Night Flights: The Poetry of Soul Retrieval and life in modern America.

Valerie is a remarkable storyteller whose keen intellect, deep curiosity, and grounded wisdom have made her a respected voice in the worlds of psychology, creativity, healing, and personal growth. In Night Flights, she invites readers into the mysterious landscape of dreams, exploring how the unconscious mind communicates through symbols, images, emotions, and stories that often disappear upon waking.

Every night, without effort or intention, we receive messages from deep within ourselves. Most of us forget them by morning. Night Flights challenges us to pay attention. In this powerful new work, dreams become more than metaphors—they become direct transmissions from the soul, offering guidance, healing, insight, and opportunities for self-discovery.

In this conversation, we discuss dreams, psychology, poetry, creativity, the unconscious mind, spiritual growth, healing, self-awareness, modern life, and the profound ways that paying attention to our inner world can transform our outer lives.

As a longtime psychotherapist and writer, Valerie shares perspectives that are both deeply thoughtful and accessible, making this an inspiring discussion for anyone interested in personal development, dream work, creativity, spirituality, and the human experience.

It is always a pleasure to have Valerie back on the show.

Enjoy this interview.

Get the new book:
Night Flights on Amazon

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Irvine Nugent Interview | Conflict EQ, Leadership Under Pressure & Emotional Intelligence at Work

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 18:07:28 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with leadership expert, speaker, and Co-Founder of Conflict EQ, Irvine Nugent.

Irvine specializes in helping leaders, teams, and organizations build the capacity to stay grounded, clear, and constructive under pressure—so that conflict becomes an opportunity for stronger communication, better relationships, and improved results rather than breakdown or avoidance.

His core insight is simple but powerful: most people don’t actually have a conflict problem—they have a capacity problem when stress levels rise. Drawing from lived experience, leadership development, and behavioral science, Irvine helps people expand that capacity so they can navigate difficult conversations without damaging trust, morale, or performance.

Through his work at Conflict EQ, he combines storytelling, neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and practical leadership tools to help individuals and organizations transform the way they handle tension, disagreement, and high-stakes communication.

In this conversation, we discuss leadership under pressure, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, workplace communication, resilience, mindset, self-awareness, organizational culture, and practical strategies for handling difficult conversations with confidence and clarity.

This is a powerful discussion for leaders, managers, executives, coaches, and anyone looking to improve how they show up when it matters most.

Enjoy this interview.

Learn more about Irvine Nugent:

Conflict EQ Official Website

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Ryan Nichols Interview | Subconscious Academy, Confidence, Habit Change & Entrepreneurial Growth

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 17:19:07 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with entrepreneur coach, subconscious behavior expert, and Co-Founder of Subconscious Academy, Ryan Nichols.

For more than 15 years, Ryan has helped entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals understand why they often stall, self-sabotage, lose momentum, or fail to follow through—even when they have the right strategy in place. His work focuses on identifying the subconscious patterns and internal obstacles that can prevent people from reaching their goals.

Drawing from an impressive background that includes coaching, clinical hypnotherapy, leadership development roles with Apple, work with the Tony Robbins Organization, and conflict-resolution initiatives connected to the United Nations, Ryan brings a unique perspective to personal and professional development.

His approach helps people build confidence, overcome limiting beliefs, improve execution, create lasting behavioral change, and achieve greater consistency in both business and life. Through Subconscious Academy, he teaches practical methods for understanding how subconscious programming influences decisions, actions, habits, and results.

In this conversation, we discuss mindset, entrepreneurship, leadership, confidence, habit formation, behavioral change, personal development, self-sabotage, peak performance, coaching, and the science behind sustainable growth.

This is a fascinating discussion for entrepreneurs, leaders, coaches, and anyone looking to break through internal barriers and create lasting success.

Tune in.

Learn more about Ryan Nichols:
Subconscious Academy Official Website

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