The Hook with Johni & Jess

Hosted by Jess and Johni, The Hook features candid conversations with musicians, artists, entertainers, and creatives of all kinds. We go beyond the surface to explore the real stories behind the art — the first spark, the turning point, the doubt, the obsession, and the moments that changed everything. Just like a hook in a song stays with you, every creative has something that grabbed hold and shaped who they became. This isn’t just about what artists create. It’s about why they couldn’t stop. 🎙 Interviews 🎸 Live performances 🎣 Real stories behind the craft Once you’re in, you’re in.

The Hook with Johni & Jess is a music podcast hosted by Jess Ellett & Johni Baird, with 19 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Jess Ellett & Johni Baird hosts The Hook with Johni & Jess, a music show with 19 episodes published.

Our AI reads these to draft pitches. Use them as grounding for a pitch that cites a real guest and a specific topic.

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  Episode #9

  Building the Sound of REIN with Jordan Rein

  Aug 6, 20261h 29mS2

  Send Johni & Jess a text What happens when three incredibly talented musicians share a studio, trust each other completely, and set out to make the best music they possibly can? You get JORDAN REIN . In this episode of The Hook with Johni & Jess , Jordan Rein , Peter Wellman , and Maddox Bruce join us for an unforgettable conversation about the evolution of their Richmond-based power trio, their collaborative creative process, and the friendships that fuel their music. The band shares how they came together, why performing as a trio pushes each of them to new creative heights, and how every member leaves their fingerprint on the music. Jordan reflects on receiving his first guitar as a surprise Christmas gift, Peter talks about unexpectedly becoming a drummer before performing at the Grand Ole Opry with his high school show choir, and Maddox shares how playing bass during the pandemic and performing in church shaped his musical journey. We also dive into Jordan Rein's ambitious new concept album, 65432 , a deeply personal project exploring the five stages of grief through music, accompanied by an upcoming short film. Jordan opens up about the healing process behind the record, while Peter and Maddox discuss how emotionally invested they became in bringing the songs to life. Along the way, the conversation takes plenty of unexpected turns—from Jordan's experience performing at the legendary Whisky A Go Go alongside rock icons, to touring with musicians like Oliver Anthony and Joey Davis , the future of authentic rock music in the age of AI, Jordan's lifelong fascination with sharks, and the hilarious true story of building the world's fastest flying lawnmower. The episode also features three tracks from Jordan Rein, a live performance of The Star-Spangled Banner at Carmax Park and an always entertaining speed round, making this a must-listen for music lovers, creatives, and anyone who appreciates the stories behind passionate artists. Featuring: Jordan Rein (vocals/guitar), Peter Wellman (drums, keys, multi-instrumentalist), and Maddox Bruce (bass). Follow Jordan Rein on Social Media IG ww.instagram.com/rein.rocks FB www.facebook.com/ReinRadio TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@rein.rocks River City Consulting River City Consulting is the the official website agency for The Hook podcast. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at: https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.

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  Episode #8

  Roads, Reeds & Rhythm: The Gary Green Story

  Jul 23, 20261h 47mS2

  Send Johni & Jess a text From hitchhiking the East Coast with a harmonica in his pocket to performing on some of the most iconic stages in America, Gary Green has lived a life that sounds more like a movie script than a résumé. In this episode of The Hook with Johni & Jess , Gary shares the incredible journey that took him from teaching himself harmonica on the side of the road to winning at the World Harmonica Championships, performing at the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium, and collaborating with musicians around the globe. Along the way, he opens up about playing alongside Jimmy Buffett, performing with the cast of The Dukes of Hazzard , working with Afghan musicians through a U.S. State Department cultural exchange program, and engineering sound for legends including B.B. King, Kris Kristofferson, Mavis Staples, George Thorogood, Yo-Yo Ma, Chick Corea, and many more. Gary's passion for music extends far beyond performance. Whether he's talking about the art of supporting songwriters, the magic that happens between performer and audience, or the unexpected lessons learned through travel and cultural connection, every story reveals a deep appreciation for the power of music to bring people together. This conversation is packed with road stories, behind-the-scenes music industry insights, harmonica geekery, and unforgettable moments from a career spent chasing great songs and meaningful connections. If you've ever wondered what happens when talent, curiosity, and a harmonica collide, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Links & Social Media Gary Green Official Website Gary Harmonica Green YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@cvilletunes Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at: https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.

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  Episode #7

  Rewriting the Story with Tyson Leamon

  Jul 16, 202653 minS2

  Send Johni & Jess a text In this episode of The Hook, Johni and Jess sit down with Tennessee singer-songwriter Tyson Leamon for a conversation that spans faith, family, redemption, and a lifelong passion for music. Tyson shares stories from his earliest days singing gospel music in church at just three years old, traveling the country with his family quartet, and eventually finding his own sound—a blend of country, Southern rock, Americana, and gospel influences inspired by artists like Chris Stapleton , Teddy Swims , Jason Crabb , and The Allman Brothers. The conversation dives into the deeply personal story behind his powerful song Who I Am , which chronicles his journey through addiction, recovery, and finding his way back to faith. Tyson opens up about the role music played in his healing process, the people who stood by him when life was at its lowest, and how songwriting became both therapy and testimony. Along the way, Tyson reflects on sharing stages with artists including the Kentucky Headhunters , Confederate Railroad , Shenandoah , Diamond Rio , Craig Campbell , Mo Pitney , and Oliver Anthony . He also talks about performing at legendary venues like Nashville's Bluebird Cafe, his dream of one day stepping onto the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium, and the lessons he's learned from artists who have remained authentic in an ever-changing industry. Listeners will also get a behind-the-scenes look at Tyson's upcoming acoustic album, recorded along the banks of Tennessee's Hiwassee River at Stump City Studios, as well as his passion project, Riverside Rhythms, which aims to help independent artists find opportunities outside the traditional music industry machine. From viral moments with Noah Peters, the Singing Barber , to conversations about family, faith, and what success really means, Tyson reminds us that sometimes the greatest achievements aren't found in fame or record deals—they're found in staying true to who you are. If you love authentic storytelling, powerful songwriting, and artists who aren't afraid to share the real story behind the music, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Want more Tyson Leamon? https://www.tysonleamonmusic.com/ IG https://www.instagram.com/tysonleamon YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@tysonleamonmusic FB https://www.facebook.com/TysonLeamonMusic/ Listen & Follow: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6c8BsQ41qt32BaLRzllDJo Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/tyson-leamon/965333496 Amazon Music: https://www.amazon.com/music Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at: https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.

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  Episode #6

  A Coruscating Conversation with The Lonely Teardrops

  Jun 22, 20261h 22mS2

  Send Johni & Jess a text The Lonely Teardrops bring their signature blend of mod garage, surf rock, soul, punk attitude, and country heart to The Hook with Johni & Jess for a conversation that’s as colorful and energetic as their music. Joining us in the studio are founder, lead vocalist, and guitarist Katie Teardrop, bassist Simon Hall, drummer Ricky Tubb, and saxophonist Bryan Condra. Together, they share the story behind the band’s name, the evolution of their sound since forming in 2005, and how a group of musicians with diverse backgrounds came together to create something uniquely their own. From international adventures and punk rock roots to spontaneous stage moments and the magic of live performance, this episode dives into the personalities, friendships, and creative chemistry that fuel The Lonely Teardrops. The band opens up about their songwriting process, the role of visual storytelling in music, the happy accidents that become fan-favorite moments, and why getting audiences up and dancing is always the goal. Plus, hear hilarious stories from the road, behind-the-scenes insights into their band dynamic, and why they believe the best music happens when you embrace the unexpected. If you love garage rock, surf-inspired sounds, soulful melodies, and bands that know how to turn every show into a stop-and-shake dance party, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Follow The Lonely Teardrops for upcoming shows, new music, and more unforgettable dance parties. thelonelyteardrops.com https://www.facebook.com/thelonelyteardrops https://www.instagram.com/thelonelyteardrops Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at: https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.

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  Episode #4

  Josh Pavlock: How "Checked Out" Became Reality

  Jun 5, 20261h 10mS2

  <p>Send Johni & Jess a text</p><p>What does it take to turn a lifelong dream into a feature film?</p><p>This week on The Hook with Johni & Jess, we sit down with Josh Pavlock, founder of Osprey Media Studios and the writer, producer, and director behind the independent thriller Checked Out. Josh shares the incredible six-year journey from mowing his lawn and deciding to make a movie, to filming a feature-length thriller, building a cast and crew, navigating the challenges of editing, and preparing for film festival submissions. </p><p>Along the way, we talk about:</p> Wh...

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