Set Lusting Bruce: The Bruce Springsteen Fan Podcast

Sherry Thomas @sherryt1970 is a writer, a podcaster and a wonderful @springsteenfan, she joins Jesse @jessejacksondfw to discuss @stevievanzandt #unrequitedinfatuations and her love of Clarence @clarenceclemons Find the show here: Twitter  @Setlustingbruce @JesseJacksonDFWInstagram: Setlustingbruce Facebook: facebook.com/SetLustingBruce Email: Setlustingbruce@gmail.comPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/setlustingbruce?fan_landing=true Listen and subscribe to us in Apple Podcasts and leave us a review! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is a little controversy in the film room between two of our co-hosts but we get through it via the miracle of editing.  CJ @KayfabeCJ, Jesse @jessejacksonDFW and Collo (@nosocialmedia) talk about the Lions game and make predictions about ‘da Bears.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The SLB family has a new podcast! Perfectly Good Podcast - John Hiatt A to Z, where Sylvan Groth and I will be talking about every John Hiatt song in alphabetical order.  Look for more details soon but for now, please listen and share our promo. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7JDGFbLkbsvlI9ymnuuWpF?si=2206fd50918c4164   Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Perfectly-Good-Podcast-John-Hiatt/dp/B0BHH5HTX1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RPV198R8JK2S&keywords=perfectly+good+podcast&qid=1665778805&sprefix=perfectly+good+podcast%2Caps%2C90&sr=8-1    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes author and former teacher Sara Goodman-Confino to Set Lusting Bruce to talk Bruce Springsteen, fandom, and fiction. Sara shares her path from 21 years teaching to writing full-time, her Springsteen origin story rooted in hearing “Atlantic City” during a difficult college week, and her family’s deep reading culture. She recounts seeing Bruce live (including being pulled onstage in Charlottesville in 2012 with a “Can I dance with Jake?” sign), attending dozens of shows, favorite songs and albums (especially Born to Run and “Backstreets”), and sending Bruce a copy of her novel Don’t Forget to Write featuring a brief Bruce cameo. They discuss Sara’s focus on humorous, intergenerational stories with strong female characters and “Jewish joy,” including why she writes Jewish characters beyond suffering narratives and how her novels highlight the recentness of women’s legal and social limitations. Sara previews upcoming projects, including her June 9 release Off the Record about a young woman in a 1960s newspaper typing pool who uncovers a Cuban spy plot, plus a planned 2027 novel centered on the Beatles’ first U.S. concert after Ed Sullivan. Find more about her and her books here - https://saraconfino.com/ 00:00 Welcome to Set Lusting Bruce + Meet Author Sara Goodman Canino 00:53 From Teacher to Full-Time Writer: Beyond the Palace Origins 03:54 Growing Up with Books & Classic Rock (and Early Bruce Memories) 05:24 The Springsteen Mix CD That Got Her Through Grief 10:13 Writing Strong Women & Finding Her Voice (Humor, Publishing, Historical Fiction) 13:29 Jewish Joy on the Page: Representation Beyond Trauma 16:28 Intergenerational Healing: The Mother-in-Law Story Behind Good Grief 19:24 New Release Spotlight: Off the Record—Jewish Romcom Meets Cold War Spy Thriller 23:00 Why the Early ’60s Still Matters: Women’s Rights, Research, and Remembering History 27:34 Why These Stories Matter (Especially for Younger Readers) 29:04 Next Novel Tease: The 1964 DC Beatles Show + A Photographer’s Big Break 31:12 Switching Gears to Bruce: The ‘Dance with Jake’ Sign & Getting Pulled Onstage 34:20 Counting Shows & Favorite Springsteen Songs (Born to Run, Backstreets, Sandy) 37:29 Have You Met Bruce? Mailing Him a Book + The New Jersey Cameo 39:27 Family Concert Memories: Dad, Uncle, and the Legendary Ticket Scores 42:46 What’s Next as a Writer: Secret Projects, Building an Audience & Future Horror Book 44:09 Thunder Road Debate: Does Mary Get in the Car? (Plus ‘Waves’ vs ‘Sways’) 44:58 Where to Find Sara: Socials, Website, Buying Options & Final Wrap-Up Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse Jackson welcomes back author **Ann Abel**, whose memoir *High Hopes* Jesse calls one of his favorite reads of 2025. Abel—who discovered Bruce Springsteen at age 59—shares the extraordinary story behind her book: how a lifetime of severe depression, the loss of her teaching career, and a desperate need for structure pushed her to book a solo trip to Australia for **eight Springsteen shows across five cities in 26 days**. What began as an escape from “the abyss” became a journey of fear, resilience, connection, and unexpected joy. Ann recounts: - **Battling self‑doubt and loneliness** while navigating a foreign country alone - A terrifying night stranded after the Hunter Valley show when her driver vanished and her flip phone died - Quiet, intimate moments of being “invisible” in hotel lobbies near E Street Band members - Meeting Bruce’s longtime manager **Barbara Carr**, the conversations that followed, and the fundraiser where Ann won a silent auction to **co‑host SiriusXM’s E Street Radio with Dave Marsh** - The months of intense rock‑history study she undertook to prepare—and the unforgettable on‑air moment when she corrected a punk‑rock attribution - How storytelling open mics and winning a **Moth StorySLAM** helped her break through writer’s block and finally write *High Hopes* - Seeing the Springsteen movie and feeling deeply validated hearing Bruce speak openly about struggle - The concert moments that changed her life, including “Dream Baby Dream” and Bruce’s reminder that “It’s all right to have a good time” Ann also talks about her recent **TEDx talk**, her unexpected rise as a late‑in‑life social‑media creator with **750,000 followers and multiple viral videos**, her upcoming travels, and the joy of becoming a grandparent. She closes by sharing where listeners can follow her work online. This is an episode about music, survival, reinvention, and the way Bruce Springsteen’s art can crack open a life at any age. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feeling the pinch from ticket prices? Remember, wisdom can be found in every decision. Don't miss my take on making peace with concert costs and loving the music, wherever you are! 🌟 #SetLustingBruce #ConcertWisdom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"I've got a battle ahead with prostate cancer, but with an excellent prognosis and your support, I'm ready. Join me in spreading love, sending good vibes, and sharing tunes for my F Cancer playlist. 🎧🙏 #ProstateCancerAwareness #MusicHeals" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join host Jesse Jackson on a new episode of 'Set Lusting Bruce' as he steps off the Bruce train for a chat with rock journalist Martin Popoff. Together, they delve into Popoff's latest book, 'KISS 76: 12 Months that Define the Hottest Band in the Land.' The episode covers KISS’s massive year in 1976, including iconic tours, releases, and cultural impact. Martin also shares his journey from heavy metal fandom to becoming a prolific rock historian, and discusses his unique podcast 'History in Five Songs.' Whether you're a die-hard KISS fan or just love rock history, this episode is a must-listen! https://a.co/d/0hmrKt9E 00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome 01:53 Guest Introduction and Background 03:10 Early Musical Influences and First Concerts 05:09 The Concept of Perfect Music 07:21 Latest Book: KISS 76 08:40 KISS in 1976: A Year in Review 17:40 KISS's Live Performances and Touring 25:11 The Ed Sullivan Moment and KISS's Influence 26:30 KISS's Unique Sound and Comparisons 29:01 Controversies and Public Perception 33:32 The Podcast and Writing Journey 37:31 Favorite Albums and Musical Preferences 39:13 The Mary Question and Final Thoughts 42:48 Outro and Housekeeping Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Lou and Karen for a JKL Media tie-in discussion of the 2025 film "Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere," directed by Scott Cooper and based on Warren Zanes’ book about the making of Bruce Springsteen’s "Nebraska." They praise Jeremy Allen White’s performance as Springsteen and Jeremy Strong’s portrayal of manager Jon Landau, but debate who the movie is meant for—hardcore fans versus casual viewers—given its quiet focus on depression, trauma, and the Nebraska era rather than the E Street Band or the more widely known "Born in the U.S.A." period. Lou, less familiar with "Nebraska," finds the film surface-level, criticizing thin characterization (including Springsteen’s father, played by Stephen Graham), a cutaway from a key therapy scene, minimal exploration of individual songs, and the E Street Band’s near-silent portrayal. Karen also notes the story can feel generic without deeper Springsteen context, wishes the film emphasized Springsteen’s mother and band dynamics more, and argues the romantic subplot involving the composite character “Faye” feels unnecessary. Jesse provides background on how the project came to be, shares lore and real-life parallels (including Springsteen’s first psychiatrist visit and a later conversation with his father), and agrees the movie is a mixed bag that likely lands best for viewers who know the book and backstory. 00:00 Welcome + Why This Springsteen Movie Feels Like a Question Mark 01:42 First Reactions: Performances, Expectations, and ‘Who Is This For?’ 03:13 How the Film Got Made: Warren Zanes, Scott Cooper, and Bruce Saying Yes 04:29 Nebraska vs. Born in the U.S.A.: The Era Casual Fans Don’t Know 06:13 Book vs. Movie + The Film’s Quiet, Depression-Focused Tone 08:36 The ‘Love Story’ Angle: Bruce & Manager Jon Landau 12:43 Lou’s Critique: Transactional Scenes and Dodging the Therapy Breakthrough 15:17 Bruce’s Father (Stephen Graham) + Missing Depth and Backstory 17:11 Where’s the E Street Band? Collaboration Erased on Screen 19:33 Karen’s Take: Generic Biopic Vibes, Lore-Heavy Story Choice, and What’s Missing 24:32 The Ending with Bruce’s Dad: Lap Scene, Payoff Without Buildup, and Real-Life Context 30:28 Family Wounds & the Film’s Emotional Core (Bruce and His Dad) 30:49 Who Is This Movie For? The Faye Romance Debate 31:51 Mustard-Gate & Other Fan-Accuracy Nitpicks 32:56 What the Movie Should’ve Shown: E Street Band & Studio Depth 34:39 Mixed Bag Reception: Highlights, Awards, and What Worked 35:35 Lou’s Non‑Sequitur Notes: Wasted Characters, Song Talk, and Stephen King Links 39:16 Karen’s Final Thoughts: Music Choices, Badlands, and Missed Potential 45:02 Wrap-Up, Next Watches, and Where to Find Everyone 48:30 Podcast Outro & Housekeeping: Contact Info and Other Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Allen and Jesse do a dive deep into the influence of Bruce Springsteen's 'Nebraska' album on the lo-fi music movement and Alan's personal connection to the record. Alan shares how the album inspired him and his brother to create their own lo-fi recordings and discusses the broader impact on indie rock in the '90s. The conversation also touches on Springsteen's approach to the album, the emotional depth of lo-fi recordings, and Alan's current musical projects. Tune in for a compelling discussion about the enduring legacy of 'Nebraska' and the lo-fi genre. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:57 Discovering Bruce Springsteen's 'Nebraska' 02:49 The Influence of Lo-Fi Recording 04:17 Impact of 'Nebraska' on Music and Personal Life 07:47 Discussion on the 'Nebraska' Movie 10:05 Springsteen's Influence on Indie and Alternative Music 23:18 Future of Bruce Springsteen's Music 25:39 Guest's Current Projects and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson welcomes back Scott Shea for a deep dive into the music and legacy of Sam Cooke. They discuss Cooke's impact on gospel, R&B, and pop music, his untimely death, and his influence on other artists. The episode also touches on Bruce Springsteen's career, including their thoughts on the 'electric' version of Nebraska and Brian Wilson's 'Smile.' Scott offers insights from his latest articles and shares exciting news about his upcoming book on Waylon Jennings. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:29 Scott's Career Update 02:00 Discussion on the New Pope 03:24 Sam Cooke's Musical Journey 09:52 Sam Cooke's Death and Legacy 16:33 Lou Rawls and Sam Cooke's Influence 18:48 Sam Cooke's Business Ventures 19:18 The Legacy of SAR Records 20:15 Exploring Sam Cooke's Greatest Hits 21:12 Cover Versions and Tributes to Sam Cooke 23:23 Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska and Its Impact 24:05 The Unreleased Gems of Music Legends 29:47 Brian Wilson's Smile: A Masterpiece Revisited 32:24 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson welcomes Mike Gendler to discuss the world of tribute bands, podcasting, and their shared love for Bruce Springsteen. Mike, a lifelong musician and entrepreneur, shares his journey from playing the piano and drums in his Philadelphia home to founding a successful entertainment company and starting the Tribute Band Sessions podcast. Learn about Mike's unique experiences, such as playing at a private party for Pink Floyd and the nuances of recreating the authentic sounds of iconic bands. They also delve into why tribute bands have gained popularity and the importance of both musical fidelity and live performance energy. Tune in for engaging stories and insightful discussions on the art of tribute bands. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:39 Mike's Musical Journey 02:49 Early Career Highlights 04:18 Family Influence and Musical Inspirations 08:48 Tribute Bands and Podcasting 09:31 The Business of Tribute Bands 19:03 Surprising Moments and Celebrity Encounters 22:00 The Passion of Rock Stars 23:07 The Popularity of Tribute Bands 24:32 Setting Up the Perfect Set List 28:10 Mimicking the Original Band 33:17 Bruce Springsteen Stories 39:31 Final Thoughts and The Mary Question Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🚨 Dive into the musical genius of Bruce Springsteen with Lou, Karen and I as we break down Springsteen's impactful new single, "Streets of Minneapolis." Tune in and join the conversation! #SetLustingBruce #Podcast #BruceSpringsteen #jklpodcast #NOICE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a surprise release on social media, Bruce Springsteen dropped a powerful new song, 'Streets of Minneapolis,' addressing systemic injustices and calling out the misuse of power by federal agencies. Without the usual fanfare of a major artist release, Springsteen's direct and unapologetic ballad highlights the names of those who died on Minneapolis streets and critiques the current behavior of enforcement agencies like ICE. The song serves as both a reminder and a warning that silence in the face of injustice is complicity, urging all to raise their voices against systemic inequities and abuse of power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join host Jesse Jackson in this exciting episode of 'Set Lusting Bruce' as he welcomes back returning guest Jackson Reed. Jackson, a musician and podcaster from Calgary, Canada, discusses his band's new EP 'Live in 25,' their thrilling experience opening for Nazareth, and the band's musical journey. Jackson also shares insights into his influences, recording process, and promotion strategies, along with a sneak peek into his podcast 'Guess That Record' featuring music industry big names. Don't miss the exclusive behind-the-scenes stories and upcoming plans for Jackson Reed and the Silverbird. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:22 Guest Introduction: Jackson Reed 01:18 Musical Journey and Band Formation 02:15 New EP: Live in 25 03:42 The Big Break: Opening for Nazareth 09:07 EP Track Breakdown 15:16 Podcast Highlights and Future Plans 15:22 Bruce Springsteen Experiences 22:59 Final Thoughts and Promotions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the podcast featuring father-daughter duo Rick and Alex. They discuss their deep connection to Bruce Springsteen's music, memorable concerts, and how Springsteen's lyrics have impacted their lives. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on fandom, family, and the enduring legacy of The Boss. Special shoutouts to incredible supporters who keep the show rolling are also included. 01:32 Introducing the Guests: Alex and Rick 03:44 Rick's Journey to Becoming a Bruce Fan 07:37 Alex's Connection to Bruce's Music 09:46 Father-Daughter Concert Experience 13:30 Thoughts on the Recent Bruce Springsteen Movie 21:11 Discussing the Lost Albums and Nebraska Set 27:57 Broadway and the Power of Storytelling 28:53 Songs That Comfort and Inspire 30:55 Memorable Live Performances 33:32 Songs We Wish to Hear Live 36:28 Unexpected Encounters with Bruce 43:05 The Thunder Road Question 45:32 Final Thoughts and Reflections 49:58 Outro and Housekeeping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging episode, host Jesse Jackson interviews entertainment journalist, photographer, and podcast host Nadja Sayej. The conversation covers Nadja's journey from Toronto to New York and Berlin, her experiences as a paparazzi photographer, the evolution of celebrity culture, and the art of interviewing celebrities. Nadja shares touching stories, insightful advice, and her passion for photography and podcasts. They also discuss the challenges and rewards of the freelance journalism industry, the significance of red carpets, and the dynamics of celebrity interactions. Don't miss this deep dive into the world of entertainment from a unique perspective! https://www.instagram.com/nadjasayej?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:27 Guest Introduction: Nadja's Journey 01:34 Growing Up and Musical Influences 07:32 Discovering Photography and Journalism 09:02 Life in Berlin and Celebrity Encounters 15:50 Transition to Paparazzi and Red Carpet Experiences 21:19 Memorable Celebrity Interactions 23:53 Celebrity Encounters and Memorable Moments 25:37 The Art of Photography and Editing 27:44 The Evolution of the Red Carpet 28:35 Rejections and Resilience in the Industry 30:01 Unique Interview Experiences 34:07 Transitioning to Podcasting 40:02 Future Projects and Creative Aspirations 42:07 Advice for Aspiring Creators 48:59 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Set Lusting Bruce podcast, host Jesse Jackson welcomes back one of his favorite guests, Ken Womack, an English professor and popular music expert from Monmouth University. They dive into a discussion on Bruce Springsteen's iconic song 'Jungleland,' its musical and lyrical depth, and why it stands out as one of Springsteen's most significant works. Womack also shares his experiences with the Born to Run Symposium and other Springsteen-related events he has helped organize. The conversation touches upon recent Springsteen tours, upcoming music projects, and the impressive Monmouth University music program. Join them for an insightful and heartfelt conversation about 'The Boss' and the lasting impact of his music. 01:32 Introducing the Guest: Ken Womack 02:28 Reflecting on the Born to Run Symposium 04:31 Ken Womack's Background and Connection to Springsteen 05:05 Discussing the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music 06:45 The Unique University Record Label 08:34 Thoughts on the Bruce Springsteen Movie 13:33 Analyzing the Song 'Jungleland' 24:01 The Energy of Live Performances 24:59 Iconic Imagery and American Wasteland 26:21 The Specialness of 'Born to Run' 28:38 Festival Experiences and Preferences 34:29 Anticipating Bruce's Future Projects 37:16 Upcoming Personal Projects 39:48 Final Thoughts and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse Jackson welcomes back fan-favorite guest Tammy Collier. The episode is a delightful catch-up session. Tammy shares her significant life changes, including moving from Jersey to Denver, and reminisces about her Bruce Springsteen fandom journey since discovering him during the 'Born in the USA' tour. The duo delves deep into memorable concerts, especially the standout 'See Here Now' event. Tammy also shares her experiences of near-misses with Bruce in Jersey, her thoughts on recent Springsteen releases, and both discuss the impact of the 'Deliver Me From Nowhere' film. Ending with a hopeful note for 2026, they touch on broad personal reflections and mutual support in both Springsteen fandom and life. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:21 Catching Up with Tammy Collier 01:16 Tammy's Journey and Bruce Springsteen Fandom 03:08 The See Here Now Festival Experience 06:16 Memorable Moments and Highlights 08:15 Reflections on Bruce's Impact 10:55 The Born to Run Symposium 13:33 Thoughts on the Box Set and Movie 22:00 Looking Ahead to Bruce's Future Plans 22:58 Upcoming Album and Tour Speculations 23:29 Dream Concert Venues and Experiences 24:03 Red Rocks Venue Insights 24:49 Tramps Like Us: A Personal Experience 25:24 Born to Run Symposium and Premier Invitation 26:22 Spring Nuts and Serendipitous Meetings 27:11 Film Reflections and Audience Impact 31:12 Movie Watching Habits and Industry Changes 34:30 Near Misses with Bruce Springsteen 40:02 Final Thoughts and Political Reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the final episode of the year, join us as we reflect on Bruce Springsteen's significant moments throughout 2025. With insights from Joyce, Caroline, and Shawn, we discuss everything from the release of Tracks 2 and the impactful Land of Hope and Dreams tour to the Nebraska expanded edition and the new biopic. We also touch upon heartfelt tributes to lost legends like Joey Ely and Jimmy Cliff, and dive deep into Bruce's enduring political and musical legacy. Tune in for an in-depth recap of a monumental year in Springsteen's world. 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 01:02 Reflecting on the Year in Springsteen 01:30 Meet the Panelists 03:38 Joyce's Springsteen Journey 05:26 Kicking Off the Year in Review 09:14 Remembering Sam Moore 17:21 Light of Day Winter Fest Highlights 23:15 Nugs Live Archive Series Returns 29:50 Bruce's Music in Commercials 37:22 Podcast Highlights and April Fools Fun 39:06 Tracks 2 Announcement 54:42 Honoring Tinker West 59:31 Bruce's Political Statements in Europe 01:04:26 Bruce Springsteen's Tour Performances 01:05:46 Negative Feedback and Tour Recap 01:06:58 Bruce Springsteen's Political Statements 01:12:19 Brian Wilson and Sly Stone's Influence 01:20:50 Tracks Two Release and Pricing Issues 01:46:03 Born to Run's 50th Anniversary 01:53:50 Reflecting on Born to Run and Podcast Recommendations 01:55:18 Symposium Highlights and Personal Experiences 02:00:01 The Influence of Peter Pan on Bruce Springsteen 02:11:51 Bruce Springsteen's Legacy Award and Solo Acoustic Performance 02:15:33 Reactions to the Bruce Springsteen Biopic 02:28:59 Nebraska 82 Expanded Edition and Electric Nebraska 02:44:23 Year-End Reflections and Hopes for 2026 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices