No Cover Charge Podcast

Shinedown guitarist Zach Myers joins Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols on The No Cover Charge Podcast for an honest, hilarious, and deeply insightful conversation about guitar, songwriting, and life on the road.Zach shares stories from touring with Shinedown, working alongside Brent Smith, and learning firsthand from legends like B.B. King. They dive into tone vs. feel, why “less is more” still wins, the pressure of writing hit songs, and how great players like John Mayer balance technique with melody.From gear talk (PRS, whammy pedals, and signature tones) to the reality of internet criticism and imposter syndrome, this episode is packed with real talk for guitar players and music fans alike.🎸 If you're a fan of Shinedown or care about songwriting, tone, and what actually makes a great guitarist—this one’s for you.Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

By popular demand, the Weird Gear episode is back! In this episode of The No Cover Charge Podcast, Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols explore bizarre, experimental, and downright confusing guitar gear—from MIDI guitars and synth pedals to phone-based effects and mutant fretboards.Expect unexpected tones, hilarious trial-and-error moments, and a reminder that weird gear is where creativity lives. Some of this stuff might be unusable… but some of it might just change how you think about guitar forever.Whether you're into guitar tone, pedals, or just love seeing musicians experiment, this episode is packed with inspiration, chaos, and pure gear nerd fun.Use Code nocovercharge for 30% off any Neural DSP plugin.Thanks to Neural DSP for sponsoring this episode.Thank you to  @NeuralDSP  for sponsoring this episode! Use code *nocovercharge* for 30% off select plugins: https://bit.ly/NEURALnocoverchargeSubscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

Step inside Nerdville East with Joe Bonamassa for one of the most in-depth guitar conversations with the guitar legend yet. In Episode 30 of The No Cover Charge Podcast, Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols talk vintage tone, legendary Les Pauls, rare Fender finds, and the real truth behind guitar collecting.From pristine 1959 bursts to historic road-worn Strats, Joe breaks down what actually matters in great guitars, how gear myths get started, and why “hearing with your eyes” might be more real than you think. Plus—cigars, stories from the road, and behind-the-scenes access to one of the most insane guitar collections on the planet.If you love guitar tone, vintage gear, blues rock, or just great musician hangouts, this episode is a must.Thank you to the sponsor of our show, Roswell Pro AudioCheck out their microphones: https://bit.ly/RoswellProAudioSubscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

The cosmic country king Daniel Donato joins Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols on Episode 29 of the No Cover Charge Podcast for a deep dive into guitar, tone, and the philosophy behind his genre-blending sound. Daniel shares stories from his early days playing Nashville’s Broadway circuit, the players who shaped his style, and how rhythm guitar, Telecaster tone, and improvisation all play a role in his musical identity.The conversation moves from gear and pedals to songwriting, touring life, and the spiritual side of playing music. Along the way, the guys jam, break down iconic influences, and explore how great guitarists balance technique, feel, and individuality.If you love guitar, country, jam bands, tone talk, and honest conversations about the craft of music, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Thank you to Neural DSP for sponsoring this episode! Use code *nocovercharge* for 30% off select plugins: https://bit.ly/NEURALnocoverchargeSubscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

In Episode 28 of The No Cover Charge Podcast, Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols sit down with Nashville guitarist and educator Kent Crawley for an inspiring deep dive into guitar technique, musicality, and creative improvisation.Kent breaks down his unique approach to the fretboard, from chromaticism and voice leading to gospel and jazz influences that shape his playing. Along the way, the conversation explores tone, custom guitars, pickup choices, ear training, and the importance of connecting what you hear with what you play. Kent also shares stories from his musical upbringing, his father's role in developing his ear, and how influences like fusion, blues, and church music helped shape his sound.Expect plenty of jaw-dropping guitar moments, practical lessons for players, and a fascinating look at how great musicians actually think about music.If you're into guitar improvisation, fusion concepts, and learning how pros approach the instrument, this episode is packed with insight.Click here for all things Kent CrawleySubscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

What happens when you plug a real 1959 Gibson Les Paul into Gary Moore’s actual 1966 Marshall Bluesbreaker JTM45… in a Nashville garage?In Episode 27 of The No Cover Charge Podcast, Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols crank up Gary Moore’s original amp and Guv'nor pedal, pair it with a legendary ’59 Burst, and chase the iconic tones of Jimmy Page, Peter Green, Eric Clapton, Billy Gibbons, Paul Kossoff, Joe Bonamassa, Slash and more.From the B.B. era Bluesbreaker roar to classic 1959 Les Paul riffs, this episode is pure vintage tube-amp chaos — and yes… the power literally goes out mid-jam. The boys still do not know if a presence lives in the studio as a result...If you love vintage Gibson Les Pauls, Marshall JTM45 tones, PAF pickups, and the mystique of Burst history, this one’s for you.Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

Please enjoy this bonus mini episode featuring one of the godfathers of rock 'n roll, George Thorogood. Lonesome George has cultivated a 50+ year career through talent, hard work, and an incredible energy that you can't help but be magnetized to, and even though this short interview is only 15 minutes, you can rewind it back again to pick up new pieces of gold that may have gotten overshadowed by George's awesome presence.Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

In Episode 26 of the No Cover Charge Podcast, Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols recap their wild trip to the NAMM Show: 6 a.m. flights, surprise jam sessions, insane vintage guitars, creator run-ins, booth takeovers, and some of the most unhinged (and hilarious) moments we’ve had yet.We jammed our way through California, from LA to Anaheim, and ended up running into YouTube heavyweights, testing bizarre gear, and filming a mini acoustic episode in the creator lounge with @ChrisBuckGuitar and @ArielPosen — this episode captures the beautiful, disjointed madness that is NAMM week.Thank you to NeuralDSP for sponsoring this episode! Use code *nocovercharge* for 30% off select plugins.Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

What happens when Dweezil Zappa opens the vault? 🤯 In Episode 25 of The No Cover Charge Podcast, Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols step inside Dweezil’s studio to explore his wildest, weirdest, one-of-one guitars — including a half-fretless SG experiment, microtonal monsters, the heavily-modded "Shut Up and Play Yer Guitar" Les Paul from Frank Zappa, and the Kramer gifted to him by Eddie Van Halen himself.From microtonal fretboards and built-in sustain systems to a bizarre Peavey amp designed like an Aston Martin dashboard, this episode is a deep dive into experimental guitar design, tone shaping, feedback control, and the creative mind of a true innovator.If you love rare guitars, boutique gear, Zappa history, and next-level tone experiments — this one’s for you.For all things Dweezil, check outhttps://www.dweezilzappa.comSubscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

Legendary Los Angeles session guitarist Tim Pierce joins Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols for a deep, honest conversation about feel, pocket, creativity, and surviving a lifetime in music. Tim has spent decades recording for some of the most iconic artists and albums of all time, including Michael Jackson, Eric Clapton, Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi, Elton John, and countless others. From playing with the biggest musicians in the world to navigating social media pressure, perfectionism, and the real grind behind great guitar parts, Tim breaks down what truly matters — groove, service to the song, and staying human.Expect stories from decades of studio work, insights on rhythm vs. virtuosity, why imperfection is powerful, and practical wisdom for guitarists trying to build something real in today’s music world.If you care about feel over flash, this episode is required listening. We got a little flashy, too, though ;)Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

Joe Bonamassa returns to The No Cover Charge Podcast for a jaw-dropping episode featuring one of the most legendary guitar amps of all time: Gary Moore’s original 1989 Soldano SLO-100. Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols head to Nerdville in sunny Los Angeles to hear this historic amp cranked, discuss its provenance, tone, and wild journey from the UK to the U.S., and geek out over Gary Moore, Warren Haynes, Eric Clapton, and the birth of modern high-gain amps.Expect deep gear talk, behind-the-scenes stories, iconic tones, and real-world insight into why this amp helped shape blues-rock history. This is a must-watch episode for guitar players, tone chasers, and serious amp nerds.Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

John Bohlinger joins Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols for a wide-ranging, guitar-centric conversation on Episode 22 of The No Cover Charge Podcast. From legendary Premier Guitar Rig Rundowns and life as a Nashville session player to AI in music, B Benders, pedal steel, tone philosophy, and why authenticity still matters, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and real-world wisdom.John shares stories from decades in Nashville, working with top artists, hosting iconic rig rundowns, directing major TV productions, and why great players take risks, embrace mistakes, and always chase feel over gear. Plus—plenty of guitar playing, tone talk, and spontaneous jams along the way, as the NCC boys do.If you love guitars, tone, Nashville stories, and honest conversations about music in the modern era, this one’s for you.Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

Join Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols in Episode 21 of The No Cover Charge Podcast as they geek out over the Neural DSP Archetype: John Mayer X plugin. This is not sponsored! The boys just love tone! Expect epic jams, preset breakdowns, real amp comparisons, and surprises like... Jared playing a Silver Sky? Gasp! From buttery cleans to roaring drives, discover why this plugin captures John Mayer's iconic tones and what its potential may be.Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.TIMESTAMPS0:00 - John Mayer's Neural DSP plugin1:19 - How good is this plugin actually?2:08 - A Surprise For Jared4:02 - The sound of three amps in the room4:56 - Lead 2 Live Room preset7:22 - Eflat Voodoo preset10:13 - Golden Gate preset10:45 - Just Plain Dumb preset16:43 - Gravity Clean preset18:09 - Gravity Lead preset18:55 - ODX preset19:42 - Hot Bridge preset20:53 - Stately Blues preset26:22 - Party Time preset26:32 - Play Nice Voicings preset28:30 - Funk Start Me Up preset30:42 - John Will Be Loved preset32:20 - Johnzilla 5 preset32:32 - Johnzilla 1 preset34:27 - Gnarly Slide preset36:30 - Express Yourself preset37:46 - Clean Your Room preset39:15 - SRV 54 preset39:49 - Green Zone Rhythm preset43:11 - I Don't Trust Myself vibes43:18 - Reflective Funk preset44:00 - Tasty Trem preset45:55 - This video wasn't sponsored, but we love this plugin47:30 - Have you ever heard Wild Blue?

Looking to level up your guitar playing in 2026? 🎸In this episode of The No Cover Charge Podcast, Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols share 26 real-world guitar practice tips that go beyond boring routines and actually make you a better musician.From honing rhythm, melody, and tone, to mindset shifts, recording yourself, silent practice, and learning from non-guitar instruments, this episode is packed with practical advice for beginner, intermediate, and advanced guitar players alike.Whether you’ve got 15 minutes a day or you’re chasing your next breakthrough, these tips will help you practice smarter, stay inspired, and make real progress in the new year.⁠⁠Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

In Episode 19 of The No Cover Charge Podcast, Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols sit down with Ben Travers, a monster guitarist, thoughtful musician, and Grammy-nominated songwriter — for a deep, honest conversation about guitar, creativity, technique, and the mental side of being a musician.This episode goes far beyond chops. Ben opens up about insecurity, social anxiety, discipline, effective practice, alternate picking, theory vs feel, songwriting, touring realities, and what it really takes to keep growing as a guitarist in today’s world. Expect jaw-dropping playing, real talk, and practical insights you can apply to your own guitar journey.Whether you’re into shredding, blues, songwriting, or just love thoughtful guitar conversations, this episode delivers. Check out all things Ben Travers⁠⁠Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge. Plug in and hang out.

What an incredible year it's been! Although we only launched this show a few months ago, it feels like something we'll be doing for a long time, thanks to you, our guests, and the power of ROCK. We are humbled and grateful for all of your support, and we'll see you in 2026! Happy New Year!Love,Tyler & Jared⁠Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge. Plug in and hang out.

In this episode of The No Cover Charge Podcast, Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols take on the timeless creative challenge: writing a song in an hour. With no plan, no pressure, and a room full of guitars, amps, and pedals, they build a rock song from scratch in real time.Watch as riffs turn into verses, choruses emerge organically, and a full song takes shape through tone chasing, odd time signatures, gear experiments, and pure musical instinct. This episode pulls back the curtain on the songwriting process, showing how musicians collaborate, problem-solve, keep it real, and follow inspiration wherever it leads.If you love guitar tone, songwriting, creative process, or watching music get made from nothing — this one’s for you. The song isn't half bad either ;)⁠Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠Facebook⁠0:00 - Writing a Song in One Hour0:31 - Rules of the Songwriting Challenge0:48 - Guitar Pedals and Gear Overview1:38 - Choosing Guitars and Amps for Songwriting1:58 - How Guitar Tone Sparks Song Ideas2:29 - Cranking a Marshall for Riff Writing3:03 - Finding the Groove and Tempo3:54 - Building the Main Guitar Riff4:23 - Turning a Riff into a Song Structure5:04 - Songwriting Advice: Don’t Overthink It6:06 - Using Fuzz and Texture for Inspiration7:52 - Creating Verses and Choruses9:04 - Switching Guitar Amps for New Sounds10:34 - Using Alternate Tuning for Songwriting11:46 - Writing a Chorus That Hits Hard13:01 - Adding Harmony and Movement15:49 - Avoiding Blues Clichés in Rock Songs17:16 - Choosing the Right Drum Groove18:40 - Writing a Bridge That Creates Contrast22:28 - Experimenting with Odd Time Signatures24:57 - Locking in the Bridge Section25:38 - Preparing for Guitar Solos30:29 - Adding Ambient Guitar Layers38:09 - Final Song Structure Comes Together40:48 - Recording Guitar Solos47:05 - The Creative Process Explained51:40 - Final Song Reveal: Dr. DeathThe No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.Thank you to the sponsor of our show, ⁠Roswell Pro Audio!

Looking for the perfect gift for the guitarist in your life? In this holiday-themed episode of the No Cover Charge Podcast, Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols are joined by very special guest Marty Schwartz to share genuinely useful, fun, and inspiring guitar gift ideas at every price point.From must-have pedals and practice tools to clever stocking stuffers and tone-shaping essentials, this is not your typical guitar gift guide. Expect real talk, great stories, live playing, and thoughtful recommendations that guitar players will actually use.Perfect for beginners, serious players, and anyone shopping for a guitarist who already “has everything.”Thank you to the sponsor of our show, Roswell Pro Audio!0:00 - Holiday Episode Kickoff0:43 - Our first sponsor, Roswell Pro Audio2:45 - Why This Isn’t a Typical Guitar Gift Guide5:15 - Our VERY Special Guest Marty Schwartz Joins Us6:34 - Worst Guitar Gifts Ever (And Why They Miss)12:32 - Gift #1: Joe Bonamassa Guitar Back Scratcher14:57 - Gift #2: Guitar Technique & Exercise Books17:53 - Gift #3: This Precious Guitar Pick20:32 - Gift #4: Stylish Capos That Don’t Suck22:58 - Gift #5: Source Audio C4 Synth Pedal25:24 - Gift #6: Gristle King Dual-Gain Overdrive27:23 - Gift #7: Walrus Audio Jupiter Fuzz28:52 - Gift #8: D’Addario Micro Headstock Tuner31:09 - Should You Ever Buy a Guitar as a Gift?Wrap-Up & Reflections32:15 - Marty Schwartz on Gratitude and Teaching Guitar34:21 - The Real Impact of Guitar Education36:57 - Final JAM SessionGIFT LINKS!Source Audio C4 SynthGristle King Dual-Gain OverdriveWalrus Audio Jupiter FuzzD’Addario Micro Headstock TunerJoe Bonamassa Blues Rock BackscratcherSubscribe on Apple PodcastsThe No Cover Charge Podcast on SpotifyInstagramTikTokFacebookThe No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

In Episode 15 of The No Cover Charge Podcast, Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols break down every phase of a guitarist’s life — from the first moment music grabs you to the highs, lows, gear spirals, plateaus, breakthroughs, and the reality of becoming a career musician. Expect hilarious stories, inspiring advice, honest struggles, and spontaneous riffing as Tyler and Jared reveal the universal stages all guitar players experience.Whether you’re in the pre-guitar awakening phase, deep in the obsession phase, stuck in the plateau phase, overwhelmed by gear acquisition syndrome, or pushing through the practice and discipline phase, this episode will feel like therapy… with more overdrive.Sit back, plug in, and enjoy a guitarist’s journey we all share.⁠Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠TIMESTAMPS0:12 – Opening Jam in D, the People's Key1:37 – Introducing today’s topic: the phases of a guitarist’s life3:13 – PRE-GUITAR AWAKENING PHASE4:06 – Wanting to be a drummer first5:23 – Getting talked into guitar instead6:07 – Early sounds that “unlocked” the instrument7:28 – Discovering open-string magic9:03 – The Incubus/Mike Einziger influence10:03 – OBSESSION PHASE begins12:17 – Learning why players sound different13:35 – Unlocking nuance and tone16:20 – PLATEAU PHASE — when everything feels wrong21:15 – Rut-busting tricks and new tunings24:24 – Entering the GAS PHASE26:50 – First pieces of gear that changed everything29:20 – Gear expectations vs. reality31:13 – PRACTICE & DISCIPLINE PHASE33:55 – Berklee stories & formative experiences37:01 – Leaving the comfort zone39:01 – Jared’s Guitar Center “Horror Story”43:37 – The phase of becoming a CAREER MUSICIAN46:16 – Why we keep playing: the same feeling from day one47:53 – Walrus Audio Melee joystick pedal demo49:18 – Final jam & wrap-upBuy a Walrus Audio MeleeThe No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.

Join Tyler Larson ( ⁨@MusicisWin⁩ ) and Jared James Nichols ( ⁨@JJNicholsMusic⁩ ) as they dig deep into the strangest, wildest, most unexplainable guitar gear they've collected over the years. From synth pedals that instantly break your brain to haunted stompboxes, octave chaos machines, forgotten vintage oddities, and micro-guitars that refuse to stay in tune, this episode is pure gear-nerd comedy gold.If you love guitar tone experiments, unpredictable sounds, and two friends losing it on camera over bonkers gear… this is the episode for you.Expect laughs, real tone talk, surprising discoveries, and some truly cursed noises. And if you wanna buy any of the gear in this episode, you can actually find some of it below...Wanna buy one of these pedals?Source Audio C4 SynthKorg MIKU: good luck finding oneBoss Enhancer: good luck finding oneMXR La Machine (is unavailable now but...)Boss Metal Zone, babyCopper Sound Pedals Triplegraph: good luck finding oneFender mini StratocasterTIMESTAMPS0:00 – The funniest episode yet begins1:45 – Introducing the Weird Gear Episode 2:28 – The mysterious Dark Planet guitar appears 3:06 – Jared admits he’s scared of synth pedals 4:30 – The FUNNIEST moment in the history of the show5:59 – Discovering legitimately cool tones by accident 7:13 – Linking all pedals below (and why you’ll want the C4) 7:30 – The infamous MIKU pedal makes its entrance 8:52 – “We’re getting censored for sure” – the pedal screams at us 9:16 – The Enhancer pedal: what exactly is it?11:10 – Seriously… is this thing doing anything? 11:34 – The sea-monster pedal emerges12:43 – Pure chaos tones: “This pedal might be broken… nope.” 14:09 – The Metal Zone test, 2025 edition 15:44 – Isolated metal tones: so bad it’s good? 17:47 – Why weird tones actually inspire better riffs 19:00 – Jared tries to channel James Hetfield with no pick 20:57 – The Triplegraph, tap-dancing into madness 23:02 – The German chaos delay pedal takes over the room 26:25 – The tiny guitar that refuses to stay in tune 30:51 – Wrapping up + should we do Weird Gear Part 2?The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.