On A Water Break

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!

🎙️ Welcome to On A Water Break — your sideline pass to the world of drum corps, marching band, color guard, and the marching arts! This week, we're turning the spotlight on LGBTQIA+ performers, educators, and community leaders who are making Pride not just a celebration—but a statement. 🫶 Host Ricardo Robinson-Shinall and co-host Whitney Stone are joined by an all-star panel: * Cameron Elliott, former Artistic Director for the World Pride Marching Band and longtime leader with Charlotte Pride Band * Chad Greife, director of the St. Louis Pride Guard * Danielle Young, co-director of the Indy Pride Guard and national adjudicator Together, they share heartfelt stories, hilarious moments, and hard-won lessons from building Pride Guards and Bands across the country. From battling heat exhaustion on parade routes to coordinating hundreds of performers with just a few rehearsals, this episode dives deep into the passion, logistics, and legacy behind these vital community groups. 💬 Topics include: * How Indy Pride Guard and St. Louis Pride Guard were founded * Behind-the-scenes stories from World Pride and local parades * The role of color guard and marching band in queer visibility * Superstitions, glitter, flag swaps, and... serving face when the hottie walks by 👀 Plus: A viral-worthy 60-Second Tech Block from Cameron, Water We Doing?! rants on parade policies and superstition, and a round of Gush & Go that'll leave you smiling. 🎧 Sponsored by Guard Closet – your one-stop shop for all things marching arts. Website: guardcloset.com [https://guardcloset.com/] | IG: @guardcloset [https://instagram.com/guardcloset] Peak Group Travel – travel planning for your next band trip, competition, or parade. Website: peakgrouptravel.com [https://peakgrouptravel.com/] | IG: @peakgrouptravel [https://instagram.com/peakgrouptravel] 📬 Have a story or want to be a guest? Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Guest Sign-Up: https://forms.gle/7GcpYZLfY8Uo54pp9 📱 Follow us @onawaterbreak on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

This week, your sideline squad Jackie Brown (@spintronixguard), Nicole Younger (@o2binpjs), Stephen McCarrick (@stephen.mccarrick), Christine from Guard Closet (@guardcloset), Jeremy from Drum Corps Today, Cynthia Bernard (@cynthiabern), and guest Dylan Watson (@that_dude_dylan18) are bringing the energy and insight you've been waiting for. We're back with fresh takes and fire updates: Dylan shares what it was really like spinning on stairs, performing with drag queens, and surviving a single rehearsal before Philly Pride's biggest shows. * Cynthia gives a full breakdown of her experience on the WGI Advisory Board—including new rules, international perspectives, and the importance of representation. * Stephen dives into the latest percussion updates and strobe light controversies. * Jeremy breaks down the summer's biggest DCI show announcements and why corps secrecy is starting to feel a little ridiculous. Plus, the gang discusses online equipment scams, consignment tips, and why your performers deserve better shoes and undergarments. Seriously. 🎧 Segment 3 features: * 60-Second Tech Block: Christine shares advice for choosing quality performance shoes. * Water We Doing? – Why aren't more groups consigning old gear? And what's up with show announcements coming late… even for members? * Gush & Go: From summer road trips and Philly Pride highlights to 3D printing superhero gear and lazy laundry days — it's all love on the sidelines. Don't forget to leave a review, subscribe on YouTube, and join the conversation in our new Facebook group: On A Water Break Chatter! Hosts & Guests: * Jackie Brown @spintronixguard [https://www.instagram.com/spintronixguard] * Nicole Younger @o2binpjs [https://www.instagram.com/o2binpjs] * Christine Ream @guardcloset [https://www.instagram.com/guardcloset] * Stephen McCarrick @smccarrickdesigns [https://www.instagram.com/smccarrickdesigns] * Jeremy from Drum Corps Today @drumcorpstoday [https://www.instagram.com/drumcorpstoday] * Cynthia Bernard @cynthiabern * Dylan Watson @that_dude_dylan18 [https://www.instagram.com/that_dude_dylan18] 💧 Want to be on the pod? Fill out our form at bit.ly/WaterBreakGuest 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: On A Water Break Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEIZAjFybvq_AzpFUXvNJDQ] 👕 Sponsored by: * Guard Closet – guardcloset.com [https://guardcloset.com/] | @guardcloset [https://www.instagram.com/guardcloset] * Peak Group Travel – peakgrouptravel.com [https://peakgrouptravel.com/] | @peakgrouptravel [https://www.instagram.com/peakgrouptravel]

Bonus Episode • Equipment Scams • Buyer & Seller Best Practices Ever encounter a "too-good-to-be-true" listing for marching band gear online? In this bonus episode, host Nicole Younger sits down with band educators Christine Ream (@guardcloset), Erica Owens (@urkuh_spins), and Rose Crow (@r0secr0w) to unpack firsthand accounts of attempted equipment fraud. They discuss the red-flag warning signs, share real victim experiences, and lay out practical steps every program can take to protect booster funds and ensure secure transactions. Whether you need used rifles, sabers, flags, or uniforms, learn how to spot scam listings, choose secure payment methods, and explore trustworthy alternatives so your students never miss a beat. HOST & GUESTS • Host: Nicole Younger — @o2bnpjs • Guest: Christine Ream — @guardcloset • Guest: Erica Owens — @urkuh_spins • Guest: Rose Crow — @r0secr0w EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS • Scam Red Flags: How missing profile photos, refusal to use PayPal Goods & Services, and requests for Cash App signaled fraud. • Community Response: Christine explains how Facebook-group admins removed the scammer, why vigilant moderation matters, and how to safeguard performers' images. • Real Victim Story: A band booster's Apple Pay loss underscores the importance of protected payment channels. • Tech Block Quick Tips: – Blending brass on uneven turf surfaces – Teaching tempo consistency without a metronome – Drill-set pointers for complex field formations • Water We Doing?!: Panel calls out: – Lack of size inclusivity in off-the-rack dancewear – Overuse of props and resulting class disparities in program budgets – Neglecting Memorial Day observances by some groups – Underfilled DCI corps tryouts (over 1,000 open spots in 2025) • Gush & Go: – Erica & Rose's successful youth program recruitment at a community vendor fair – Rose's upcoming Community Spin event welcoming all ages to flag work – Christine's 25-year legacy helping schools nationwide with guard and band equipment "If a seller refuses to use PayPal Goods & Services and insists on Cash App, walk away—your boosters' money is at risk." — Rose Crow QUICK LINKS • Guard Closet → https://guardcloset.com [https://guardcloset.com/] • Peak Group Travel → https://peakgrouptravel.com [https://peakgrouptravel.com/] • Be Our Next Guest → https://forms.gle/7GcpYZLfY8Uo54pp9 • Host Questionnaire → https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1QHSqoUpMbUqhrCa5rNK8zRFgVB4BROjZBCQ4m6yd4aQ • Follow Us: – Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/onawaterbreak – TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@onawaterbreak – Link in Bio → https://linktree.com/onawaterbreak SPONSORS • Peak Group Travel – Ensuring your next competition trip is worry-free. • Guard Closet – Trusted source for new and consignment guard and band equipment. FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Drop a review, share with a friend, and tag us with your own gear-hunting wins or cautionary tales. HASHTAGS #OnAWaterBreak #MarchingBand #EquipmentScams #ColorGuard #DrumCorps #BuyerBeware #GuardCloset #PeakGroupTravel #MarchingArts #Podcast #SafetyFirst #CommunityEvents #MarchingLife

This week on On A Water Break Weekly, we're twirling into something special! Author and longtime color guard veteran Jase Peoples joins us to talk about Twirl—his new YA novel that centers queer identity, color guard culture, and the power of found family. We get into his 32 Count Life Story, talk representation in marching arts literature, and how Twirl is already resonating with performers across the country. To Catch up on the Book with Jase Peeples (@jasepeeples).  Check it out (bit.ly/3Z8n1Fi [https://l.instagram.com/?u=http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F3Z8n1Fi%3Ffbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaerbAOUbNe4wLoOgUB99PlPITw7nRCiSlVj8CQxjgodP3ArPgwRANUd1hzYqg_aem_jHhYCVA5cvOJPtqX1gHI7A&e=AT3W1yA7eoHiYNc56kCCgw99A395pfJluNTd1nAtF_bGsNF0MoaIy0HlNVj-6I6cH3_kT8fACmXOnyqel1Y7q9CrJ2SInw7ZFmPIqOI]) Plus, it's a packed sideline with Jackie, Ricardo, Trish, and special guest Jase jumping in on this week's topics, including: * 📚 The creative and cultural inspiration behind Twirl * 🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQ+ visibility in color guard and youth lit * 🥁 The official end of Pride of Cincinnati's legendary run * 🎓 Scholarships and student success stories * 📼 Old school color guard history and what we've forgotten * 💬 60‑Second Tech Block: performance consistency * 😤 What Are We Doing?!: Ballad bans, uniform disasters, and program legacy * 🎉 Gush & Go: DCI move-ins, new jobs, and big guard wins 💥 Whether you're headed to spring training, starting summer camps, or just missing Dayton, this episode will hit you right in the show feels. 💬 Want to be on the show? Fill out our guest form: https://linktr.ee/onawaterbreak 📬 Email us: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com 📺 Watch us on YouTube & subscribe 📱 Follow us everywhere @onawaterbreak 🛍️ Brought to you by Guard Closet – www.guardcloset.com [https://www.guardcloset.com/] 🧳 Sponsored by Peak Group Travel – www.peakgrouptravel.com [https://www.peakgrouptravel.com/]