On A Water Break

This Week we welcome Ron Simmons from the Macy's Great American Marching Band. We also have guest Host Cyndi Mancini fresh off her performance with 400 Band Directors at the Macy's Parade.  All this plus news and more!!! Guests Ron Simmons - @macysgreatamericanmarchingband Cyndi Mancini - @girlybanddirector Meet our Hosts Jackie Brown - @spintronixguard Stephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarick Cindy Barry - @leandermomma Nicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcg Trevor Bailey - @t_pain151 Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002 Beth Beccone - @bether7189 Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1 Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabern Ashlee Amos - @famousamossss_ Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07 Stephanie Click - @stephanieclick Whitney Stone - @dancerwhit Justin Surface - @J_dex07 Ashley Tran - @itsashleytran Jack Goudreau - @goudreau_ Music provided by leydamusic.com [http://leydamusic.com/] Follow him @josh.leyda Avatars provided by @tch.makes.art Featuring Lexi Duda - Host for On A Water Break In Rhinestones - The Stories of the Twirlers @lexi_duda Thank you also to @guardcloset #marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumline

Join our Hosts and some amazing guests as they remember the amazing legacy Robert W. Smith including Director of Bands for Auburn University, Dr. Rick Good. Robert W. Smith was a highly respected American composer, arranger, and music educator. Sadly , Robert W. Smith passed away on September 21, 2023, at the age of 64, due to complications following cardiac surgery . His contributions to the music industry, both as a composer and educator, have left a lasting impact on musicians and audiences around the world. Guests Dr. Rick Good Director of Bands at Auburn University - @auburnbands Tim Hinton - @marchingartseducation Kelly Efstathiou - @kellyalaynamusic Meet our Hosts Jackie Brown - @spintronixguard Cindy Barry - @leandermomma Thom Shearer - @tshearer74 Trevor Bailey - @t_pain151 Whitney Stone - @dancerwhit Justin Surface - @J_dex07 Beth Beccone - @bether7189 Stephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarick Nicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcg Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1 Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabern Ashlee Amos - @famousamossss_ Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07 Stephanie Click - @stephanieclick Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002 Featuring Lexi Duda - Host for On A Water Break In Rhinestones - The Stories of the Twirlers @lexi_duda Thank you also to @guardcloset and @marchingartseducation #marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumline

Boston Crusaders & Carolina Crown check-in, Band Director Marching Band's 2026 Rose Parade return, and Marc Whitlock's decades of design wisdom. On this week's On A Water Break, the summer season is officially underway! Host Nicole Younger is joined by Christopher Rutt, Jackson Goudreau, and Joey Montes for five packed segments covering drum corps updates, marching band nostalgia, and pro-level design advice. 🎺 32 Count Life Story & Interview Special guest Marc Whitlock (Academy, Cavaliers, Cadets) kicks things off with his 32 Count Life Story, then stays to share tales from the golden age of corps, lessons from Zingali & Sylvester, and must-have tips for today's designers. 📰 In the News * Band Director Marching Band returns to the 2026 Rose Parade * How HBCU bands stole the spotlight in Netflix's Severance * Jackson's preview of the Royal Nova Scotia Tattoo * Joey breaks down Drum Corps International's new "DCI to the Core" campaign 🎤 DCI Correspondents Report In * Clara & Jack (Boston Crusaders): Spring training highlights, pit secrets & drill insights * Omari Holaki (Carolina Crown): 47 pages of drill, intentional leaks, and ballad beauty 🛠️ 60-Second Tech Block Marc on behind-the-scenes design chaos and why today's writers must focus on audio layering. 🧠 Water We Doing?! * Chris: "Bring back traditional retreat uniforms." * Jackson: "Let's help members cover tuition." * Marc: "Don't overload your soundscape." * Joey: "Build your teaching village." 💬 Gush & Go * Jackson: Heads to Canada for the Tattoo. * Chris: Celebrates Palisades HS grads at the Hollywood Bowl. * Joey: Eva's return & his Jabbawockeez audition. * Marc: Reflects on the mentors, students & moments that shaped him. — 🎥 Watch this week's full episode & bonus segments → [link] 📋 Submit to be featured → [link] — 🌍 Sponsored by: Peak Group Travel | IG: @peakgrouptravel 👕 Guard Closet | IG: @guardcloset

Join our hosting panel as they talk all about WGI-CON 2024 with some amazing guests. We hear about all the inside scoop and behind the scenes of everything that went down at this year's event from presenters and attendees. Join our special guests Tony Lymon and Jara Clark along with some of our regular hosts as we go deep in WGIcon 2024 Meet our Hosts Jackie Brown - @spintronixguard Stephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarick Cindy Barry - @leandermomma Nicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcg Trevor Bailey - @t_pain151 Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002 Beth Beccone - @bether7189 Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1 Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabern Ashlee Amos - @famousamossss_ Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07 Stephanie Click - @stephanieclick Whitney Stone - @dancerwhit Justin Surface - @J_dex07 Ashley Tran - @itsashleytran Jack Goudreau - @goudreau_ Bill Woodward - @remoking100 Emily Nee - @tch.makes.art Ricardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinson Austin Hall - @Austin_hall10 Jose Montes - @joeymontes57 Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107 Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhart Music provided by leydamusic.com [http://leydamusic.com/] Follow him @josh.leyda Avatars provided by @tch.makes.art Featuring Lexi Duda - Host for On A Water Break In Rhinestones - The Stories of the Twirlers @lexi_duda Thank you also to @guardcloset #marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumline Follow Us: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038 Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreak Instagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreak Contact Us: Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Website: www.onawaterbreak.com [http://www.onawaterbreak.com/] Keywords: Drum Corps International, DCI, Marching Music, Marching Arts, Drum Corps, Marching Band, Marching Percussion, Marching Guard, Marching Arts Podcast, Drum Corps Podcast, Marching Music Podcast, Marching Arts Community, Drum Corps Community, Marching Band Community, colorguard, dci, WGI

Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. "It is time for your favorite show that gives you news, interviews, all things marching arts — and you are on a water break." This week on Water Break Weekly, Ashlee Amos, Nicole Younger, Stephen McCarrick, and Hayley Harrington break down the biggest marching arts headlines — including a brand-new drum corps in Indiana, major DCI All-Age updates, and the 2026 WGI Hall of Fame recipients. SEGMENTS IN THIS EPISODE • News • 60-Second Tech Block (Nicole): "How to prepare for a critique." • Water We Doing?! • Gush & Go SPONSORED BY • Guard Closet — @guardcloset — https://www.guardcloset.com/ THIS WEEK'S PANEL • Ashlee Amos — @famousamossss_ • Nicole Younger — @o2bnpjs • Stephen McCarrick — @stephenmccarrick • Hayley Harrington — @h_harrington14 FIND ON A WATER BREAK Website: https://www.onawaterbreak.com/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/onawaterbreak Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com

Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. Water Break Weekly is back for Season 4 — and we're kicking off 2026 with major DCI headlines, WGI updates, and a parade performance story that proves marching artists are built different. Christopher Rutt is joined by Bobbey Biddle, Dalton Stout, Grantis Peranda, and Amari Lewis to talk Boston Crusaders' historic championship run, what's coming next in 2026, WGI's continued focus on training and safety, and the rain-soaked Rose Parade performances that had everyone grinding through seven miles with zero resets. Segments: • News Block: DCI recap + what 2026 could bring, WGI's 2025 season recap and 2026 updates, Rose Parade 2026 rain performance stories, Philly Mummers Parade weather impact, and Harriman High School's field show inspired by Vincent Lima — with the artist showing up in person. • 60-Second Tech Block: Dalton Stout on Effective Conditioning — what it should actually do, and why "just doing something" isn't the same as training for performance. • Water We Doing?! Rehearsal schedules that don't exist, repeating the same show ideas, the lack of med staff support at rehearsals, and costuming choices that don't account for real bodies. • Gush & Go: Shoutouts from judging and choreography life to WGI/DCI weekends, plus love for every Rose Parade performer who pushed through the weather. Panelists: Christopher Rutt (@wildhornbrass1) • Bobbey Biddle (@bobbey107) • Dalton Stout (@SaltyDalti) • Grantis Peranda (@grantisimo_p) • Amari Lewis (@_amari.lewis_) Sponsors: • Guard Closet (@guardcloset) – Gear, consignments, and more at guardcloset.com Find On A Water Break: Website: onawaterbreakpodcast.com Linktree: linktr.ee/onawaterbreakpodcast Guest/Segment Submission: bit.ly/OAWBGuestForm Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Hashtags: #OnAWaterBreak #MarchingArts #DrumCorps #ColorGuard #MarchingBand #WGI2026 #DCI2026 #BandLife #GuardCloset

Nicole Younger closes out Season 3 with the OG crew — Jackie Brown and Stephen McCarrick — for a finale hang that hits favorite moments, big laughs, and a full preview of the new Season 4 flow. Highlights * The crew shares their favorite Season 3 moments — from NFL drumline conversations to Finley's "Toddler of the Year" marching band obsession, and the Matt Harloff interview right after WGI and Coachella. * Season 4 preview: team-format weeklies, rotating main hosts, more regular faces, and expanded associate producer support. * 60 Second Tech Block: Stephen breaks down how to design video assignments so the work itself makes students better. * Water We Doing?! drum corps audition camp logistics + why color guard isn't showing up more in pop productions. * Gush & Go: new jobs, focused creative seasons, holiday wins, and meeting baby Leilani. This week's panel * Nicole Younger (@o2binpjs) * Jackie Brown (@spintronixguard) * Stephen McCarrick (@stephenmccarrick) Sponsors Peak Group Travel (@peak.group.travel) • Guard Closet (@guardcloset) Find the show Website: onawaterbreak.com • Linktree: linktr.ee/onawaterbreak • Be a guest: forms.gle/7GcpYZLfY8Uo54pp9 • Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com

Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. This week, we're celebrating the world of parades—the traditions, the chaos, the unexpected moments, and the marching arts culture behind them. Jackie, Jack, Grantis, and Jeremy take a full tour through America's most iconic parades, sharing stories from the street, expert opinions, and tips every band and guard should know before stepping off. We dig into everything from national spectacles like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Rose Parade, and Mardi Gras to regional favorites including the Mummers Parade, Cherry Blossom Parade, Gatlinburg Midnight Parade, Bristol 4th of July, Lodi Grape Festival, Portland Grand Floral Parade, Detroit's Thanksgiving traditions, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, and the highly competitive California parade circuit. Whether you love parades for the pageantry, the community connection, or the pure unpredictability (yes—goats, llamas, feathers, wine fountains, and more), this episode has something for everyone. What We Cover * Why parades matter for school culture, community presence, and recruitment * Parade memories that shaped each panelist * The role of drum majors and block structure on a moving route * What makes the Rose Parade turn so intimidating * How Mardi Gras float builders create parade magic * Why Philly's Mummers Parade is still unmatched in personality * What directors overlook: spacing, alignment, showmanship, and audience impact * The difference between competitive parade judging and community performance 60-Second Tech Block Jack Goudreau delivers a full breakdown of how to build a proper parade block, covering interval control, step-off technique, first-step mechanics, subdivision, and how body alignment affects sound and visual clarity. Water We Doing?! Jeremy questions why parade blocks cater to judges instead of the audience. Grantis talks about students who join band for connection, not competition. Jack calls out unsafe guard/band collisions and poor spacing on parade routes. Gush & Go The panel shares end-of-season highlights, life updates, creative inspiration, and their excitement for wrapping up Season 3 and stepping into Season 4. This Week's Panel Jackie Brown — @spintronixguard  Jackson Goudreau — @goudreau_  Grantis Peranda — @grantisimo_p  Jeremy Williams — @guardcloset Sponsors Peak Group Travel — @peak.group.travel  Guard Closet — @guardcloset Find On A Water Break Website: onawaterbreakpodcast.com Linktree: linktr.ee/onawaterbreak Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Be a Guest: form in our bio Follow us everywhere: @onawaterbreak We'll see you next rehearsal — On A Water Break.

Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. This week, Ricardo and Trish welcome two standout guests: Kenai Central High School Band Director Christian Stefanos (@akbanddirector) — whose band traveled from Alaska to BOA Grand Nationals — and TikTok creator & performer Taylor Greatbatch (@greatbatchofcookies). Christian breaks down what it took to build a marching band from scratch, fundraise across a state the size of a continent, and take a small-town Alaska program onto the national stage in Indianapolis. Taylor shares what it's like teaching in one of Kentucky's lowest-income districts, why BOA experiences matter for rural kids, and how marching band shaped their entire career across theater and performance. Then the whole panel dives into a packed NEWS segment featuring: • BOA Grand Nationals Finals breakdown • DCI 2025 schedule • HBCU Band of the Year finalists • 2025 Dunkin' Thanksgiving Parade bands • 2025 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade lineup Christian takes on the 60-Second Tech Block with "How to Build a Marching Band From the Ground Up." Taylor unleashes a viral-worthy rant about Broadway-level marching band shows ("I should not have to have a PhD to understand your marching band show, girl!"), and Ricardo drops a scorched-earth message to the Avon haters who have been trashing kids online after BOA Finals. The episode closes with a heartfelt Gush & Go, including: • The Spartans preparing for the Macy's Parade • Christian's students getting national love • Ricardo's district-wide arts expos inspiring the next generation • Kentucky band programs celebrating major milestones Hosts: Ricardo Robinson-Shinall (@ricardorrobinson) Trish O'Shea (@trishdish1002) Guests: Christian Stefanos — Kenai Central High School Band (@akbanddirector) Taylor Greatbatch (@greatbatchofcookies) Presented by: Guard Closet — gear, education & design for the marching arts Peak Group Travel (@peak.group.travel) — group travel done right If you're not listening to On A Water Break… what are you even doing?

Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. It's BOA Grand Nationals Week, PASIC is happening across the street, and the 2025 marching band season is officially coming to a close. Nicole hangs out with Taylor and Haley to talk favorite shows, end-of-season surprises, band-parent TikTok chaos, and the programs they can't wait to watch in Indy — all pulled directly from this week's conversation. Highlights: • Bandtober survival + Grand Nats weekend hype • Boston, Bluecoats, Vanguard, Catawba Ridge, and Texas standouts • Band parent & senior "sign-in / sign-out" TikTok trends • Taylor's PASIC breakdown (60-Second Tech Block) • Water We Doing?! — AI props & "stop asking what time it is" • Gush & Go — pies, parades, Cincinnati Tradition, and new seasons starting up Sponsors: Peak Group Travel — @peak.group.travel Guard Closet — gear, design, education: https://guardcloset.com/ Find On A Water Break: Website: https://onawaterbreakpodcast.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/onawaterbreak Be a Guest: link in bio Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Social: @onawaterbreak

Winter guard takes center stage as Becca Anderson and Stephanie Furniss of Juxtaposition join Jackie Brown, Nicole Younger, and Joey Montes to explore how great design meets athlete care. From musical hooks and color theory to safety, mentorship, and inclusion, this conversation celebrates the art and heart of the activity. ✨ OAWB Journey to WGI 2026: Follow our exclusive coverage of Juxtaposition Winter Guard all season for weekly rehearsal updates and design insights as they prepare for WGI Finals. Episode Highlights • Juxta's design and storytelling approach • Injury prevention and health culture in elite programs • Color psychology and creative decision-making • Mentorship and generational collaboration • Honest discussion on safety for under-18 performers • Feel-good "Gush & Go" wins from the panel News Stories Chad Smith scholarship • Gladys Wright legacy • WGI DEI programs • Macy's Parade bands • Vandegrift community response Panelists: Jackie Brown (@spintronixguard), Nicole Younger (@o2bnpjs), José "Joey" Montes III (@marchingbymontes) Guests: Becca Anderson (@becca.anderson23 | @becca.anderson2397) & Stephanie Furniss (@sfurn4) – @juxtapositionwinterguard Sponsors: Peak Group Travel (@peak.group.travel) | Guard Closet (@guardcloset) Listen Everywhere: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube • Amazon Music • iHeartRadio • onawaterbreakpodcast.com

The Peters Family brings the phrase "family tradition" to the marching arts. Hosts José "Joey" Montes III and Trish O'Shea talk with Craig, Melissa, Lindsay & Ashley Peters about their viral rifle-feature video that united four generations of color-guard experience. From Cavaliers and Guardsmen roots to Colts, Bluecoats, Boston Crusaders, Pride of Cincinnati & Allegiance, this family shows how spinning together keeps them connected on and off the field. Highlights • Family legacy across drum corps generations • Behind the viral Boston Crusaders TikTok • Lindsay Peters' 60-Second Tech Block on packing for tour • The ethic and energy that keep them teaching and creating • "Water We Doing" rants & "Gush and Go" shout-outs Featuring Craig Peters (@craigpeters459), Melissa Peters (@melissapeterscg), Lindsay Peters (@lindsayspins31), Ashley Peters (@ashleyspins21) Hosts José "Joey" Montes III (@marchingbymontes) and Trish O'Shea (@trishdish1002) Sponsors Guard Closet | Peak Group Travel 📧 onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com  🌐 onawaterbreakpodcast.com  🔗 linktr.ee/onawaterbreak

This week, Stephen McCarrick is joined by Neil, Art Grossman, and guest Megan Cooney, Associate Director of Bands & Director of Athletic Bands at Rowan University, to talk about the rapid rise of the Pride of the Profs Marching Band and the realities of surviving Bandtober. 🎺 Discover how Rowan's program expanded from 130 to 180 members in just three years, what it takes to build a college band culture from scratch, and how joy, trust, and community keep musicians coming back through the busiest month of the season. 🗞️ NEWS • Wisconsin State Championships – Baldwin-Woodville, Greendale, River Falls & Oak Creek take top honors. • HBCU Red Lobster Band of the Year – Florida A&M's Marching 100 lands #1. • Minnesota Youth & Music Championships – Rosemont High School wins gold. Plus, big shoutouts to every band wrapping up state finals weekend! 💼 Peak Group Travel Tip – @peak.group.travel [https://instagram.com/peak.group.travel] | Lock in your early-bird fares before finals season hits full stride. ⚙️ 60-Second Tech Block Neil fires up the field with a pep talk on staying motivated — from Halloween rehearsals to senior night celebrations. 💦 Water We Doing?! Stephen questions why "bad" college bass lines still exist, Megan vents about practice-room noise complaints, Art calls out Bandtober burnout, and Neil just wants one Saturday for pumpkin patch season. 🌟 Gush & Go Neil's band heads to the NYC St. Patrick's Day Parade, Megan's students earn a 2026 Philly Thanksgiving Parade invite, Stephen performs with the Eagles Drumline Kelly Green Game, and Art celebrates how the marching arts are thriving nationwide. 👥 This Week's Panel Stephen McCarrick – @yeah_bass [https://instagram.com/yeah_bass] Neil – @neildrums1 [https://instagram.com/neildrums1] Art Grossman – @arthurjuhl [https://instagram.com/arthurjuhl] Guest Megan Cooney – @prideoftheprofs [https://instagram.com/prideoftheprofs] | Rowan University 💧 Find On A Water Break 🌐 onawaterbreakpodcast.com 🔗 linktr.ee/onawaterbreak 📧 onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music & more. 🏆 Sponsors 🥇 Peak Group Travel – @peak.group.travel [https://instagram.com/peak.group.travel] | peakgrouptravel.com 🛍 Guard Closet – @guardcloset [https://instagram.com/guardcloset] | guardcloset.com [https://guardcloset.com/] 🎙 A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes.

Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts! This week, Whitney Stone, José "Joey" Montes III, Alicia Sharp, and first-time guest Amari Lewis dive into the chaos of Bandtober—from Texas showdowns and rehearsal rules to accountability and drill cleaning that actually works. 🎺 In Joey's 60-Second Tech Block, he explains how to clean drill like a scientist—fix the source, not the symptom. Then the team lets loose in "Water We Doing?!", calling out three-hour full-ensemble rehearsals, upside-down flag silks, and DCI members who treat the summer like a vacation instead of a responsibility. 💖 Finally, everyone takes a deep breath for Gush & Go—celebrating Monterey High's first marching band in 38 years, Joey's new BAC 8to5 Horns rep role, and the pure joy of Bandtober season. Guest Spotlight: Amari Lewis, Michigan State University drum major and Mandarins alum, shares his 32-Count Life Story and talks about leadership work with Silent Command and DCI's Drum Major Leadership Committee. Sponsored by: Guard Closet [https://www.instagram.com/guardcloset] and Peak Group Travel [https://www.instagram.com/peak.group.travel] 📧 Want to be on the show? Email us at onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com or fill out the guest form via our Linktree. 🌐 Find us at onawaterbreakpodcast.com

Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. This week, journalist and award-winning author Sam Quinones (Dreamland, The Least of Us, The Perfect Tuba) joins the OAWB team to explore how the tuba—and the marching band itself—can teach us everything we need to know about purpose, community, and fulfillment. Host Christopher Rutt leads the conversation alongside Nicole Younger and Trish O'Shea, diving into the meaning behind The Perfect Tuba and the resilience of the band world. From addiction recovery to the discipline of rehearsal, Sam shares how musicians, directors, and everyday band kids are quietly shaping stronger communities through focus, collaboration, and hard work. NEWS SEGMENT * Lois Rogge, a 58-year-old mellophone player, joins NC State's Power Sound of the South—proof that it's never too late to march. * The Alabama State Honeybees receive national support after an offensive "Ozempic" comment from a rival announcer. * Detroit's Cody High School brings back its marching band after a 20-year hiatus, celebrating a new era of school pride. Plus, the Peak Group Travel Tip of the Week helps you plan your next performance adventure with ease. WATER WE DOING?! The crew calls out habits that need to go: * Nicole: "Stop hiding behind your shako—perform with your face." * Chris: "Directors, pick age-appropriate, culturally sensitive show concepts." * Sam: "Why are bands trying to be football? Remember, it's about the sound, not the size of your props." GUSH & GO * Sam celebrates his new book, The Perfect Tuba. * Chris moves to Virginia and settles into East Coast life. * Nicole launches her full-time coordination business. * Trish honors her friend Mike Alicourt, remembering his incredible spirit in the marching arts community. LISTEN & CONNECT Find The Perfect Tuba wherever books are sold or visit samquinones.com. Follow the full OAWB crew: @spintronixguard | @o2bnpjs | @trishdish1002 | @onawaterbreak Got a question or story idea? Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com DM us or fill out our guest form—link in bio. SPONSORS Brought to you by Peak Group Travel (@peak.group.travel), helping you navigate your next adventure, whether it's across the country or your next competition. And supported by Guard Closet (@guardcloset), your one-stop shop for gear, consignment, and design. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your favorite band friend. We'll see you next rehearsal—On A Water Break.

This week we head to the Collegiate Marching Band Festival 2025 in Allentown, PA — where more than 3,000 performers from 20 college and university marching bands brought their traditions, styles, and energy to J. Birney Crum Stadium. Nicole Younger and Bill "Woody" Woodward sit down with Kelly Gumble of Vivace Productions, who shares her 32 Count Life Story and takes us behind the scenes of how Collegiate has grown into one of the marching arts' favorite annual traditions. Woody also takes us into the lot for exclusive interviews with bands and staff, and Stephen McCarrick stops by to show off his Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl Ring. We wrap things up the OAWB way — with Water We Doing?! rants and Gush & Go shoutouts straight from the Collegiate community. 🔥 Inside This Episode * Guest Spotlight: Kelly Gumble on her 32 Count Life Story, the festival's 30-year history, and the traditions that make Collegiate unique (including the sousaphone circle). * Lot Coverage: Woody's interviews with collegiate performers and staff capture the vibe from the sidelines. * Special Visit: Stephen McCarrick shares the story of his Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl Ring. * Water We Doing?! Nicole, Woody, Kelly, and Collegiate voices sound off on equipment, heat, and band quirks. * Gush & Go: Shoutouts from Kelly, Woody, and Collegiate guests celebrating wins, birthdays, and band pride. 🙌 Sponsors Peak Group Travel (@peak.group.travel) – Lock in early-bird fares for your next trip or competition. Guard Closet (@guardcloset | guardcloset.com) – Your one-stop shop for consignment gear, uniforms, and design services. 📲 Connect & Subscribe Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Guest Sign-Up Form: https://forms.gle/LgtmWZ4oFEHibi3F7 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnAWaterBreakPodcast Website: https://onawaterbreakpodcast.com [https://onawaterbreakpodcast.com/] Follow us everywhere: @onawaterbreak

Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts.This week's panel brings together Jackie Brown, Grantis Peranda, Trish O'Shea, Emily Nee, and special guest Liam Reynolds (@bucketdip on TikTok | @liam.r.reynolds on IG). From cymbal line culture to uniform fabrics and color wheel chaos, we cover everything making waves in fall marching band design — plus the latest BOA and DCI headlines you need to know. 🔥 Inside This Episode * Guest Spotlight: Liam Reynolds shares his 32 Count Life Story, cymbal TikTok journey, and hopes for world-class auditions. * BOA/DCI News Roundup:• BOA Austin Regional — Vandegrift sweeps captions. • Spartans approved for World Class 2026. • Troopers announce Into the Darkness (2026). • Ohio State unveils first new uniforms since 2006. • Carolina Crown adds Keith Potter & Rosie Miller Queen to design team, plus updates from Genesis, Raiders, Vanguard, Blue Knights, and Impulse. * Design Trends 2025: Judge blockers (front drops), smoother transitions, digitally printed fabrics, props vs. handhelds, and the danger of ignoring the color wheel. * 60 Second Tech Block: Grantis on "Writing for Success" + Liam on "Visual Silence vs. Visual Sound." * Water We Doing?! Rants on critiques, winterguard mysteries, color choices, and cymbal lines being cut. * Gush & Go: Emily debuts Gush & Go stickers, Grantis plugs Grantissimo Productions, Trish celebrates Northern Valley's Blackbird and North Rockland's win, Liam looks forward to Cap City auditions, and Jackie returns to judging. 🙌 Sponsors * Peak Group Travel (@peak.group.travel) – Lock in early-bird fares for your next trip or competition. * Guard Closet (@guardcloset | guardcloset.com) – Your one-stop shop for consignment gear, uniforms, and design services. 📲 Connect & Subscribe * Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com * Guest Sign-Up Form: [Link in bio] * YouTube: Subscribe for episodes + clips * Follow us everywhere: @onawaterbreak

Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. We head to Knoxville with the Pride of the Southland Marching Band (UTK). Director Dr. Michael Stewart breaks down the Black Suits leadership model, keeping the iconic Circle Drill fresh, audition growth and yearly re-auditions, tuning for power (why "in tune" = "sounds bigger"), and the eternal Rocky Top "Woo" debate. UT students Madelyn Bowman (guard) and Austin Kerr (tuba/Black Suit alum) jump in for Water We Doing?! and Gush & Go on band culture, travel, and show design. Segments * 32-Count Life Story — Dr. Stewart * Interview Pt 1 — UT system, grad staff, Black Suits * Interview Pt 2 — Circle Drill refresh, audition numbers, tuning philosophy, the "Woo" * Water We Doing?! — Away-game guard travel, visiting-band courtesy, design clarity * Gush & Go — Pride momentum, Tokyo Disney, guard growth, rest & self-care Panel & Guests Host: Nicole Younger (@o2bnpjs) • Panel: Alicia Sharp (@aliciaoninsta2) Guest: Dr. Michael Stewart (Director, Pride of the Southland — UTK) Band: Pride of the Southland Marching Band (UTK) — Website: utbands.utk.edu/marching-band/ • IG: @utbands • X: @POTSBand • FB: /utbands • YouTube: University of Tennessee Bands Student Guests: Madelyn Bowman (@madstopbowman) • Austin Kerr (@austin_kerr) Find On A Water Break • Website: onawaterbreak.com [http://onawaterbreak.com] • Linktree (all platforms): [http://linktr.ee/onawaterbreak] • Be a Guest / Submit a Topic: [http://forms.gle/LgtmWZ4oFEHibi3F7]• Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Sponsors Peak Group Travel (@peak.group.travel) • Guard Closet (@guardcloset) Call to Action Subscribe, rate & review, and share this episode with your band fam. Follow #OnAWaterBreak and watch more on our YouTube channel.

This week on On A Water Break, we honor the extraordinary life and legacy of WGI Hall of Fame member Eileen Cunningham — the powerhouse behind St. Anne's Neponset and a beloved mentor across the New England color guard community. Jeremy Denzer (@jeremydenzer) joins us to share personal stories about Eileen's unmatched impact, from leading St. Anne's to five world championships to shaping generations of performers and instructors. Plus, we dive into trending news, including: * Portland, Oregon's band directors refusing to perform at games in protest * Viral videos of older adults making their return to college marching band * Support for underfunded and overworked music educators across the country 🎺 60-Second Tech Block: Jeremy Denzer (@jeremydenzer) reminds us that true band culture means showing up for every section — from sideline percussion to clarinets to colorguard. Because respect isn't just for the front ensemble or brass line — it's for everyone who sweats on that field with you. 🎙️ Hosted by Jose A. Montes III (@marchingbymontes), Whitney Stone (@dancerwhit), and special guest Jeremy Denzer (@jeremydenzer). Sponsors: 📣 Guard Closet – One stop for consignment, costumes, design services & more: https://guardcloset.com [https://guardcloset.com/] 📣 Peak Group Travel – Plan your next band trip with the experts: https://peakgrouptravel.com [https://peakgrouptravel.com/] Follow @guardcloset and @peak.group.travel for updates! Subscribe & Listen: 📲 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnAWaterBreak 🍎 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-a-water-break/id1674241312 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HF3xHVnH2j2YCnugwtoKS

From honoring a legend to surviving burnout in the band room — this week's On A Water Break is a heart-forward deep dive into the realities of teaching, grieving, and slaying the glam game. 🎙 Hosted by Nicole Younger, with guests Ricardo Robinson-Shinall, Whitney Stone, Trish O'Shea, and doctoral candidate Ryan Bronner, this episode brings equal parts sparkle and soul. 💔 We begin with a tribute to Bruno Zuccala, a beloved figure in the color guard world whose recent passing has left a deep impact on our community. Panelists reflect on his legacy, share personal memories, and talk about the importance of showing up for each other in grief — especially in a performance culture that often pushes feelings aside. 💄 Then, we shift into guard glam, burnout, and all the realness of band camp season: * 60-Second Tech Block with Whitney's top-tier makeup tips for sweat-proof performances * 32 Count Life Story with Ryan Bronner (Patriots, college teaching, LGBTQ+ mental health research) * Water We Doing?! rants on toxic teaching culture, DCI staff drama, and performing in unsafe heat * Gush & Go: From TikTok shopping fails to massive teaching wins, wardrobe swaps, and doctoral milestones 💬 QUOTES FROM THIS EPISODE: "We've got to grieve out loud. We're allowed to take up space." — Ryan Bronner"Band kids are out here melting, and directors are pretending everything's normal." — Ricardo Robinson-Shinall"Bruno was the sparkle. He was the performance." — Nicole Younger 🔗 LINKS & CONTACT 📺 Watch on YouTube → @OnAWaterBreakPodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@OnAWaterBreakPodcast?utm_source=chatgpt.com] 📬 Email us → onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com 📱 Follow us → Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/onawaterbreak?utm_source=chatgpt.com], TikTok, Threads 💻 Guest sign-up → onawaterbreak.com 🎧 Guest: Dr. Ryan Bronner 🔗 Facebook: Ryan Aeney | LinkedIn: Ryan Bronner 🧃 Sponsored By: * Peak Group Travel | @peak.group.travel * Guard Closet [https://guardcloset.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] | @guardcloset 🏷️ SEO Keywords: Bruno Zuccala tribute, Color Guard burnout, Guard makeup tips, LGBTQ+ mental health marching arts, Ryan Bronner, On A Water Break podcast, Band director burnout, TikTok fails, Band camp heat, DCI staff issues, Marching arts podcast, Guard Closet, Peak Group Travel, 60 Second Tech Block, Gush and Go