Tailgate Beers

Austin and Ryan catch up with country artist Dylan Schneider backstage at Tailgate N’ Tallboys. Dylan talks about his journey from Indiana to Nashville, the grind of early gigs, breaking into the country scene, and what it’s like balancing life on the road with writing and recording. From festival stages to behind-the-scenes moments, this episode gives a real look at one of country’s rising acts.

Austin and Ryan sit down with country artist Graham Barham at Tailgate N’ Tallboys in Clinton, Iowa. Graham shares his story of growing up in Louisiana, moving to Nashville, and chasing down songs that tell his truth. The conversation ranges from life on the festival circuit to building a young career in country music, with plenty of laughs and behind-the-scenes stories along the way

Austin and Ryan sit down with rising country artist Bayker Blankenship backstage at Tailgate N’ Tallboys in Clinton, Iowa. Bayker opens up about turning 20, building a young band from scratch, going from factory work to record deals, and sharing the stage with Whiskey Myers. The conversation drifts from career milestones and touring with Lainey Wilson to fishing, golf, and even the great washcloth debate, classic Tailgate Beers style!

Day two at Tailgate N’ Tallboys in Clinton, Iowa brings the guys from Ole 60 to the Tailgate Beers Podcast. Jacob and Dwight sit down with us to talk about life on the road, growing up in Owensboro, KY, and how a few buddies playing music turned into something that’s connecting with fans across the country. We dive into songwriting, their commitment to only performing music they’ve had a hand in creating, and the raw authenticity that’s driving their rise. The band shares stories from festivals like Railbird, shotgun beers with fans at the campground, and what it feels like to finally hear a crowd sing their lyrics back at them. There’s plenty of talk about the Cubs vs. Cardinals rivalry, influences like Treaty Oak Revival, and how Ole 60 is carving their own space in country and Americana. It’s a laid-back, genuine conversation about music, roots, and keeping it real on and off the stage. Brought to you by Surfside Iced Tea & Lemonade + Vodka — real vodka, real flavor, no excuses.

In this Tailgate Beers episode at Tailgates N' Tallboys in Bloomington, Nicky T and Matt from Raised Rowdy talk about becoming the festival’s official hosts, building a community-driven brand in country music, and grinding through a packed summer of events and festivals. They reflect on watching artists like Josh Ross rise, spotlight emerging talent they believe in, and emphasize that the artists who succeed are the ones who outwork everyone else. The conversation mixes industry insight with plenty of festival chaos, merch talk, and stories that capture the rowdy, family-style culture surrounding the event.

In this Tailgate Beers episode at Tailgates N' Tallboys in Bloomington, Wesko joins Austin & Ryan fresh off stage to talk about wild festival crowds, his small-town roots in North Carolina, and grinding it out in dive bars before gaining traction online. He shares how a tough experience on American Idol fueled his drive, how TikTok helped grow his fanbase, and why he’s committed to authentic songwriting over chasing industry trends. The episode also dives into his musical influences, frequent Nashville trips, and the release of his new single “Pretend.”

In this Tailgate Beers episode at Tailgates N' Tallboys in Bloomington, Vincent Mason and Cole Goodwin join Austin & Ryan to talk festival season, new music, and life on the road. Cole shares that he recently signed a record deal with Big Machine Label Group and has new music dropping, while Vincent discusses finishing his upcoming album and re-cutting vocals to perfect the sound. The two also swap stories about touring, debate artists like Morgan Wallen and Chris Stapleton, and reflect on the grind of building their careers one festival at a time.

In this Tailgate Beers episode at Tailgates N' Tallboys, Texas artist Sterling Elza talks about blending rock energy with country roots, his blue-collar upbringing, and building his career through relentless touring and authentic songwriting. He shares how staying true to his sound has helped him connect with fans, reflects on the grind of the road, and previews new music that continues to lean into his gritty, high-octane style.

In this Tailgate Beers episode at Tailgates N' Tallboys, Logan Crosby talks about his rise as an independent country artist, from moving to Nashville in 2022 to touring with Megan Moroney and building a loyal fanbase without a label. He reflects on learning from his cousin Jason Aldean, staying focused on strong live shows over viral moments, and grinding it out on the road—currently in a renovated prison bus—while working toward releasing new music and steadily growing his career.

In this Tailgate Beers episode recorded at the Tailgates N' Tallboys festival in Bloomington, Josh Ross catches up with the Austin & Ryan about his rapid rise since his last appearance, including landing his first U.S. Top 10 radio single and releasing a summer collaboration with Akon—an artist he grew up admiring—which has quickly become one of his biggest streaming successes. He talks about strategically dropping music midweek, the growth of the festival circuit, and how returning to familiar markets helps build a loyal fanbase. Beyond music, Ross shares updates on buying a house, getting a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever to dive deeper into hunting, potential NHL performance opportunities, and heavy touring plans across the U.S., Canada, and possibly overseas. He also opens up about finding happiness in his personal life, keeping relationships private, and how that mindset may subtly shape the tone of his upcoming project.

This Tailgate Beers episode leans into the wild, behind-the-scenes side of life on the road as Fox N’ Vead joins the podcast from Tailgate N’ Tallboys in Bloomington, Illinois. The band shares how four very different personalities and musical tastes collided to form a sound rooted in rock, country, and punk influences, and how early struggles—from shaky first practices to quitting steady jobs—pushed them to fully bet on themselves. They reflect on the grind of touring, writing as a unit, and learning from artists like Kameron Marlowe, Gavin Adcock, and Ole 60, who not only gave them opportunities but also real-world advice on how to grow. Along the way, the conversation highlights the group’s unfiltered humor, genuine friendship, and deep respect for fans who travel long distances to support them, painting a picture of a band that’s equal parts chaos, gratitude, and momentum as they carve out their place in the scene.

On this episode of the Tailgate Beers podcast, Austin & Ryan sit down with Nuthin Fancy CEO Jackson Grove at the Tailgate N’ Tallboys festival to talk about how a laid-back idea born from farm nights with friends turned into a fast-growing lifestyle brand. Grove shares how Nuthin Fancy evolved from a hobby into a full-time business during his final years of college and the COVID era, the risks he took sending free hats to artists, and how early relationships—most notably with Hardy—helped propel the brand into the country music spotlight, including a hat landing in the Country Music Hall of Fame. He discusses the importance of authentic relationships, strategic collaborations with artists, festivals, and motorsports, and maintaining creative control while slowly expanding into retail. Throughout the conversation, Grove reflects on staying grounded, enjoying the ride, and building a brand centered on quality, community, and genuine connections rather than hype.

In this episode of Tailgate Beers, country singer-songwriter Cole Goodwin joins the crew for a lively and heartfelt conversation that dives into his musical journey from Georgia to the Ryman stage, his deep roots in hunting and fishing, and his passion for family and old-school country. Recorded before his set opening for Vincent Mason in Peoria, Cole brings his Southern charm, quick wit, and a love for chocolate milk and outdoor life to the table. Whether he's talking about turkey hunting tactics or performing songs that reflect his authentic style, Cole proves he's an artist to watch—and a natural fit for the Tailgate Beers vibe.

In this episode of Tailgate Beers, rising country artist Vincent Mason joins the crew at Crusens in West Peoria for a lively, behind-the-scenes look at his fast-track journey through the music scene. From swapping stories about wild tour nights with Gavin Adcock to reflecting on the roots of his songwriting and the unexpected rise of his hit “Hell is a Dance Floor,” Vincent gives fans an authentic glimpse into his path from dorm-room recordings to major festival stages. With charm, humor, and insight, this episode captures the spirit of an artist on the cusp of something big.

In this heartfelt and refreshingly candid post-show episode of Tailgate Beers, country artist Spencer Crandall joins hosts Ryan and Austin for an unforgettable conversation straight off the stage at Crusens in West Peoria. As the first guest to appear immediately after performing, Spencer opens up about life on the road, staying healthy, and navigating sobriety with honesty and humor. The episode takes a deep dive into self-worth, friendship, and the power of personal growth, all while keeping things grounded with laughs, food talk, and a few wild hypotheticals. It's raw, real, and a must-listen for fans of meaningful conversations and independent country music.

In this unforgettable episode of Tailgate Beers, country music’s rising star Cooper Alan hops in for a rowdy hangout filled with hilarious stories, behind-the-scenes tour tales, and plenty of cold ones. From TikTok fame to sold-out shows, Cooper opens up about his journey with the kind of laid-back honesty and quick wit that makes you feel like you're right there at the tailgate. It’s all heart, humor, and honky-tonk—don’t miss it!

Join us for an unforgettable episode of Tailgate Beers as we sit down with country singer-songwriter Greylan James! From growing up in Knoxville with big dreams to making waves in Nashville’s music scene, Greylan shares his incredible journey, the stories behind some of his biggest songs, and what it's really like to write for country music legends. With plenty of laughs, real talk, and, of course, a few cold beers, this episode dives deep into the heart of country music and the grit it takes to make it. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering Greylan for the first time, this one’s a must-watch!

In this episode of Tailgate Beers, Uncle Koe brings his signature energy and storytelling to the show, sharing hilarious anecdotes, game-day traditions, and his passion for football and beer. With a laid-back vibe and plenty of laughs, the episode captures the essence of tailgating culture, blending camaraderie, great drinks, and unforgettable moments. Whether he's reminiscing about past tailgates or giving his hot takes on the latest matchups, Uncle Koe keeps the conversation lively and entertaining from start to finish.

In this episode of Tailgate Beers, hosts Ryan and Austin sit down with rising artist Sterling Elza as he prepares to perform at Crusens in Peoria, Illinois—his first time playing in the state. Sterling talks about his journey from Amarillo to New Braunfels, his love for Texas rock, and how his music blends country and 90s alternative influences. He also shares stories about collaborating with fellow artist Lecade, his tennis background at IMG Academy, and his excitement for upcoming festival performances, including Tailgate and Tallboys in Bloomington. With humor and humility, Sterling offers insights into his music career, life on the road, and the experiences that shape his songwriting.

In this episode of Tailgate Beers, Tyler Braden sits down for an engaging conversation about his journey from firefighting to country music stardom. He shares insights on his early days playing rock covers, his transition to country, and the impact of social media on his career. Braden also discusses his experience on tour, his excitement for upcoming releases—including God and Guns N' Roses—and the balance between playing fan favorites and exploring new music. The episode offers a candid look at his passion for performing, songwriting, and the evolution of his sound.