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

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

This week on On A Water Break, it's all about nerves, leadership, representation, and celebrating unforgettable wins in the marching arts. Host Josh Smith is joined by new panelists Dalton Stout, Clara Bagwell, and Eric Levy — all making their podcast debut! The team kicks things off with their 32 Count Life Stories and a fun icebreaker: "What part of the marching band are you?" Clara relives her gold-medal summer with the Boston Crusaders, Dalton shares his journey from Nebraska to Colorado and launching DVS Choreo, and Eric spotlights his 20+ years of teaching and his work with Drumline Network. In the News Block, we cover: * The retirement of Iowa's legendary announcer Lou Crist after 44 years * Miami budget cuts cutting $12.8M in arts funding * A stolen band trailer in Colorado and tips for protecting your equipment * PASIC 2025 announcements featuring RhythmX and George Mason Dalton delivers the 60-Second Tech Block on choreography hacks, and in Water We Doing?! the crew takes on audition nerves, teaching leadership in a post-COVID generation, body shaming in DCI, and the importance of ensemble unity. The episode wraps with Gush & Go, highlighting Boston's first DCI championship, new percussion challenges, and student success stories. Panelists & Socials: * Dalton Stout – IG/TikTok: @saltydalti | daltonvstout.com [https://daltonvstout.com/] * Clara Bagwell – IG: @_clara.01100010 * Eric Levy – IG: @worldoferic | Drumline Network & Percussion League * Josh Smith – TikTok: @mr.smiths.band Sponsors: * Peak Group Travel – @peak.group.travel | peakgrouptravel.com * Guard Closet – @guardcloset | guardcloset.com ✨ Don't forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share this podcast with a friend.

Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. This week on On A Water Break, Alicia Sharp (@aliciaoninsta2), Nicole Younger (@o2bnpjs), and special guests Angela & Adam Miller from Meridian Independent Winter Guard take us from the earliest days of cadet guard training to the thrill of performing at WGI World Championships. We talk about how they've built a program where members start in 3rd grade, stick around for years, and grow into confident, high-level performers. In the News, we dive into: • Heat safety in marching band after 11 Mississippi students collapsed during extreme temperatures — and why policies for football don't always apply to band. • WGI's new Regional Plus events launching in 2026 — double panels, more feedback, and what it means for performers and instructors. • Rumblings about WGI's new judges training platform and why mentorship matters for future adjudicators. Angela also takes on our 60-Second Tech Block with rapid-fire tips for teaching cadet guard, we all vent in Water We Doing?! about swing flag rules, prop setup times, last-minute show orders, and the epidemic of open-mouth performing, and then we end with some big smiles in Gush & Go. Panelists & Guests 🎙️ Alicia Sharp — @aliciaoninsta2 🎙️ Nicole Younger — @o2bnpjs 🎙️ Angela & Adam Miller — @meridianwg (FB/IG/TikTok) | meridianwinterguard.com Sponsors 🧳 Peak Group Travel – Helping you navigate your next adventure, from across the country to your next competition. 📍 peakgrouptravel.com | IG/FB: @peak.group.travel 👗 Guard Closet – Your one-stop shop for guard gear, consignment, and custom design. 📍 guardcloset.com [https://guardcloset.com/] | IG/FB/TikTok: @guardcloset Listen Everywhere 🔗 YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@OnAWaterBreak] | Apple Podcasts | Spotify [https://spotify.com/] | onawaterbreak.com Hashtags #MarchingArts #ColorGuard #WGI #CadetGuard #MeridianWG #WinterGuard #MarchingBand #DrumCorps #GuardTeaching #HeatSafety #RegionalPlus #GuardCloset #PeakGroupTravel #OnAWaterBreak

– First-ever female Penn State drum major, Brass Band tribute at Ozzy Osbourne's celebration, and DCA/DCI crossover in Williamsport. On this week's episode of On A Water Break, we're gearing up for DCI Championships in Indianapolis, August 8–9, 2025! Stephen McCarrick (@stephenmccarrick) is joined by Nicole Younger (@o2bnpjs), Chris Green (@virtualassistantdirector), and Lori Winschel (@lori.winschel) for five packed segments filled with history-making news, live-from-the-field insights, tech tips, and candid "water break" rants. 🎺 32 Count Life Story & Interview: Special guest Chris Green (National Sales Manager, @fruhaufuniforms & @virtualassistantdirector) kicks off the show with his 32 Count Life Story, then shares behind-the-scenes tales from the road and what makes DCI week so electric. 📰 In the news: * Penn State Blue Band names Ellie Sheehan as its first-ever female drum major. * Bostin Brass Band honors Ozzy Osbourne with a "War Pigs" tribute. * Williamsport's DCA/DCI crossover brings Bushwackers, Phantom Regiment & more together. * Music For All appoints Dr. James Weaver as CEO & President. * Cynthia Bernard becomes the first international steering-committee member for WGI. 🛠️ 60-Second Tech Block: Lori Winschel (@lori.winschel) dives into slow-tempo training, showing why "if you can't do it slow, you can't do it fast"—and how subdividing every count can sharpen technique. 🧠 Water We Doing?! * Chris Green (@virtualassistantdirector): Why judging bias needs a reset—evaluate each performance on its own merits. * Lori Winschel (@lori.winschel): The case for teaching business & guard management in music-education programs. * Neal Bright (@nealdrums1): How college band programs must prep new directors for rural & small-town teaching realities. 💬 Gush & Go: * Nicole Younger (@o2bnpjs): Pumped for a three-week break before judging season begins. * Stephen McCarrick (@stephenmccarrick): Celebrating a childhood friend's wedding & an Eagles drumline reunion. * Chris Green (@virtualassistantdirector): Thrilled to reconnect Drum Corps alumni at SoundSport & surprise an audience in full @fruhaufuniforms regalia. * Lori Winschel (@lori.winschel): Check out StartingLineDesignCo on Etsy for custom guard accessories and follow my work at @virtualassistantdirector. 💬 Want to be featured? Submit your video or apply to join us: 📋 https://forms.gle/OnAWBJoinUs 🎥 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEIZAjFybvq_AzpFUXvNJDQ 🎙️ Sponsored by: 🌍 Peak Group Travel | @peak.group.travel 👕 Guard Closet | @guardcloset

** Legacy Drum Corps launch, Cadets heritage preserved, and Chuck Mangione tribute.** On this week's episode of On A Water Break, the summer season ramps up! Host Trish O'Shea is joined by Sadie Wallace, Justin Siegmund, Tommy Maiello, and Eric Sabach for five packed segments filled with marching arts history, breaking news, and tech tips. 🎺 32 Count Life Stories & Interviews: * Sadie Wallace traces her journey from Baton Twirling Champion to legendary instructor across East Coast corps. * Eric Sabach recounts marching from Lenape Valley to directing Phantom Regiment and co-founding the 1934 Foundation. * Justin Siegmund shares his rise from Illinois high school guard to Phantom Regiment performer and recent Gold Medal with WGI 2025 Champion Pride of Cincinnati. * Tommy Maiello reflects on decades leading and teaching corps, now launching LEGACY DRUM AND BUGLE CORPS, Dream's newest SoundSport venture. 📰 In the News: * Chuck Mangione's passing at age 84: honoring the smooth jazz flügelhorn icon who bridged DCI and the broader music world. * LEGACY Drum & Bugle Corps Launch: Dream's new DCI Soundsport corps for 2026 → Press Release [https://www.dreamtoperform.org/] * Cadets heritage secured: the 1934 Foundation acquires The Cadets' name, logo & IP and unveils a scholarship program. * 🏅 Gabby, a Norwin High School color guard standout and two-time WGI world medalist, is a finalist for Sports Illustrated Youth Athlete of the Year—vote daily through August 7 → SI Youth Athlete Voting [https://www.si.com/youth-athlete-voting] 🛠 60-Second Tech Block: Justin delivers nonstop tips on mastering the three-turn under a five in cramped spaces.  💧 Water We Doing?! Panelists rant about over-the-top face makeup trends in guard and debate when innovation crosses the line with tradition. 🌟 Gush & Go: * Justin is thrilled to move into his new apartment with college guard friends. * Sadie celebrates her debut in the Spectacular Follies at age 71. * Tommy & Eric gush over Dream Performing Arts Academy's programs and the promise of Legacy Corps. 🎥 Watch this week's full episode & bonus clips → YouTube 🔗 Apply for Legacy auditions → dreamtoperform.org [https://www.dreamtoperform.org/] 🔗 Vote daily for Gabby as SI Youth Athlete of the Year → SI Youth Athlete Voting 🌍 Sponsored by: Peak Group Travel | IG: @peak.group.travel [https://www.instagram.com/peak.group.travel] 👕 Guard Closet: IG: @guardcloset [https://www.instagram.com/guardcloset]

Drum Corps History, Shower Anthems & Duct‑Tape Marching Tux Triumph 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 hosts Nicole Younger, Jackie Brown, and Trish O'Shea welcome Tai Nelson from Ty Talks DCI (@taitalksdci) to dive into the deeper story behind drum corps—from academic roots to Instagram education and yes, shower anthems. Surprise guest Nicholas Moore (@BrasstapeBandKid on IG, @BrassTape on TikTok) joins us live from Disney to celebrate his $15,000 Duck Brand "Stuck at Prom" win, featuring his viral duct‑tape tux! 🔹 Segments & Highlights: * 32 Count Life Story: Crossmen legacy → BD → scholar/content creator * West Coast DCI tour predictions * AES 500 Festival & HBCU Band announcements * Duct‑Tape Tux Triumph: Nicholas' creative showcase + scholarship * Tech Block: building community in tour showers * What Are We Doing?! & Gush & Go 🎙️ Panel & Guests: Nicole Younger [@o2bnpjs], Jackie Brown [@spintronixguard], Trish O'Shea [@trishdish1002], Tai Nelson [@taitalksdci], Nicholas Moore [@BrasstapeBandKid / @BrassTape] 💼 Sponsors: Peak Group Travel @peak.group.travel | Guard Closet @guardcloset 📝 Want to be on the show? Fill out the guest form or email us. 🔔 Subscribe, rate, and DM to keep the hype going!

Welcome to On A Water Break—your all-access pass to the marching arts! This week, Stephen is joined by Jackie Brown, Woody Woodward, and two special guests: legendary Chuck Henson (@chuckhenson1) of Bands of America and broadcaster, and Joe Brown, the powerhouse educator behind Elizabeth HS, NJ. In this episode: * 32 Count Life Stories from Chuck ("the big voice in the big stadium at the big band show!") and Joe ("Joe Bama" of Title I band fame). * Sideline Scoop: Clark Atlanta University Mighty Marching Panthers performed at Truist Park's MLB All-Star Weekend ✔️ Leander (TX) HS band mourns sophomore member Braxton Jarmon amid flooding; community launches fundraisers ✔️ Music for All names Dr. James Weaver as new CEO/President ✔️ Duck Brand+1Instagram+1 [https://www.duckbrand.com/stuck-at-prom/official-rules?utm_source=chatgpt.com]Nicholas Moore of South Iredell HS takes home a $15,000 Duck Brand "Stuck at Prom" scholarship for his Duck Tape tuxedo ✔️ Duck Brand+15Duck Brand+15Ferris State University+15 [https://www.duckbrand.com/stuck-at-prom?utm_source=chatgpt.com] * Peak Group Travel Tip: Book early-bird fares now – peakgrouptravel.com [https://peakgrouptravel.com/] & IG @peak.group.travel. * 3…2…1—go! (60‑Second Tech Block): Joe breaks down the keys to Title I program success—"The difference is not in the kids' passion, but in the support, resources, and structure schools provide." * Water We Doing: Stephen advocates for raising NJ drumline standards; Chuck pushes for greater exposure to elite performance; Joe & Woody challenge DCI's tour model and explore regional access. * Gush & Go: Woody celebrates opening-season wins; Joe cheers on alumni marching in Mandarins and Blue Devils; Chuck salutes BOA's 50th anniversary; Stephen reveals he's being sized for his Eagles Drumline championship ring. Featured Guests: * Chuck Henson (@chuckhenson1) – BOA announcer, host of Joining Us podcast * Joe Brown – Elizabeth HS, NJ  Hosts: * Stephen McCarrick (@stephenmccarrick) * Jackie Brown (@spintronixguard) * Woody Woodward (@remoking100) News & Story Links: • CAU at All-Star Game: [HBCU News article] ✔️ • Leander HS band story: [Facebook/KWTX coverage] ✔️ • Dr. James Weaver's appointment: [Music for All release] ✔️ • Nicholas Moore's scholarship: [Duck Brand winners page] & [PR Newswire coverage] ✔️ Yahoo Finance+14Duck Brand+14PR Newswire+14 [https://www.duckbrand.com/stuck-at-prom?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & Host Introductions 02:00 – 32 Count Life Story: Chuck Henson 10:00 – 32 Count Life Story: Joe Brown 18:00 – Sideline Scoop: News 27:00 – Peak Group Travel Tip 28:00 – 60‑Second Tech Block: Title I Bands 34:00 – Water We Doing: DCI Access & Exposure 44:00 – Gush & Go: Wins, BOA, Drumline Ring 55:00 – Closing & CTAs Listen everywhere: Apple • Spotify • Amazon • YouTube Connect with us @onawaterbreak

Ricardo Robinson-Shinall (@ricardorrobinson) • Stephen McCarrick (@stephenmccarrick) Co-host: Trish O'Shea (@trishdish1002) Guest Hosts: Michelle Adcock (@michelleainpa) of the Hawthorne Caballeros (https://hawthornecaballeros.org [https://hawthornecaballeros.org/]) • Nick Coppock (@cantstopcop) of the Bushwackers (https://www.bushwackers.org [https://www.bushwackers.org/]) Episode Summary: We kick off the inaugural DCI All-Age season with your full panel: news headlines, a 60-Second Tech Block on video-feedback drills, a Water We Doing? rant on online negativity, and Gush & Go highlights. Segments: 1. 32-Count Life Stories – Origins and paths of Michelle, Nick & Ricardo 2. News Roundup – FAMU's first female head drum major → https://www.si.com/college/hbcu/bands/florida-a-m-marching-100-makes-herstory-naming-first-female-head-drum-major Beyoncé's $100K to Texas Southern "Ocean of Soul" → https://www.houstonchronicle.com/entertainment/music/article/beyonce-donates-100k-to-tsu-ocean-of-soul-houston-20398428.php WGI's new Participant Protection (3P) training → https://www.wgi.org/participant-protection-training NFL's first twirler in 23 years → https://sports.yahoo.com/article/hartselle-native-twirl-tennessee-titans-123600911.html 3. 60-Second Tech Block – Michelle Adcock on using in-rehearsal video feedback (full guide on site) 4. Water We Doing? – Why we need to champion positivity in the marching-arts community 5. Gush & Go – Trish's All-Age show excitement Stephen's July 12 Rowan University clinic featuring Roger Carter Ricardo's post-tour adrenaline & student success shout-outs Nick's fitness-through-discipline journey Michelle's drum clinic buzz with elementary guards Listen & Subscribe: • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEIZAjFybvq_AzpFUXvNJDQ • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/onawaterbreak • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-a-water-break/id1653637341 • Other platforms: search "On A Water Break" • Guest Signup: https://forms.gle/7GcpYZLfY8Uo54pp9 Sponsors: Peak Group Travel – https://peakgrouptravel.com [https://peakgrouptravel.com/] (@peak.group.travel) Guard Closet – https://www.guardcloset.com [https://www.guardcloset.com/] (@guardcloset)

This week, your hosts—Jackie Brown (@spintronixguard), Stephen McCarrick (@stephenmccarrick), Ricardo Robinson-Shinall (@RicardoRRobinson) and Trish O'Shea (@trishdish1002)—sit down with: * Brent Becker (uniform designer extraordinaire; IG: @bbecker_designs) * Nicholas Moore (Duck Brand "Stuck at Prom" finalist; IG: @BrasstapeBandKid, TikTok: @BrassTape) * Brandon Worf of Drum Corps AF Podcast (IG: @drumcorpsafpodcast | https://drumcorpsaf.com [https://drumcorpsaf.com/]) What's on the sideline this week? * 32-Count Life Stories with Brent & Nicholas * Uniform Room News: Inside Nicholas's full marching-band suit built from duct tape—and Brent's pro tips on fit, materials & color theory * Sponsor Break with Guard Closet * 60-Second Tech Block: Brent's rapid-fire deep dive into the Bluecoats' uniform evolution * Water We Doing?! Rant & rave on esoteric show themes, secrecy culture and "fast fashion" uniform practices * Gush & Go: Community shout-outs and hype for DCI 2025's opening weekend 🎧 Listen & Subscribe • Spotify → https://spotify.link/OnAWaterBreak • Apple Podcasts → https://apple.link/OnAWaterBreak • Google Podcasts → https://google.link/OnAWaterBreak 🔗 Resources & Voting • Vote for Nicholas's Duct-Tape Suit → https://www.duckbrand.com/stuckatprom • Brent Becker's Portfolio → https://instagram.com/bbecker_designs • Drum Corps AF Podcast → https://drumcorpsaf.com [https://drumcorpsaf.com/] | IG: @drumcorpsafpodcast 🤝 Proudly Sponsored By Guard Closet – uniforms, flags & gear → https://guardcloset.com [https://guardcloset.com/] | IG: @guardcloset Peak Group Travel – expert tour planning for bands & drum corps → https://peakgrouptravel.com [https://peakgrouptravel.com/] | IG: @peakgrouptravel 📣 Get Involved Want to be on the show or pitch a topic? • Guest Form → https://forms.gle/7GcpYZLfY8Uo54pp9 • Email → onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com • Follow → @onawaterbreak on Instagram, Facebook & X 🏷️ Hashtags #OnAWaterBreak #UniformDesign #DuctTape #DCI2025 #DrumCorpsAF #MarchingArts #Podcast Don't miss next week's episode—same sideline, new stories!