Flock Talk with the Femme Flock

This episode on Flock Talk , we’re joined by the unstoppable Natalie Brooke — singer, songwriter, classically trained pianist, keytar icon, and the headliner for our upcoming MSG Night Zero benefiting Conscious Alliance. Natalie takes us through her journey from childhood piano lessons and jazz studies to becoming one of the most electrifying performers in the jam scene today. We talk about learning to trust her voice, overcoming stage fright, embracing failure as part of growth, and the moment she realized she never wanted to hold back on stage again. And of course…we talk keytar lore, fishnets, funk-rock chaos, improvisational jams, Goose, Night Zero, women-led community, and what audiences can expect when Natalie takes over NYC this June. Buy a Ticket to MSG Night Zero at Racket NYC on 6/18 here . Donate to Conscious Alliance here . Natalie Brooke @noodlybrooke Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

You can’t spell Mom without Mo. This Mother’s Day, we’re joined by Maura Reilly—aka Mo—and Amy Hoaglund, the mom and sister of Rick Mitarotonda of the band Goose, for a warm, funny, and personal episode of Flock Talk. We get into what it was really like raising a creatively gifted kid who saw the world a little differently, growing up alongside a younger brother whose musical talent was obvious from the start, and what it means to support someone through both the highs and the hardest moments. From early musical influences and imaginative childhood stories to navigating loss and finding healing through music, this conversation captures the full picture of family, creativity, and resilience. It wouldn’t be Flock Talk without a few unexpected turns, so yes, there are some very funny stories you won’t see coming (you’ll just have to listen). We also talk Mother’s Day unconventional traditions, the power of community within the Goose fandom, and what it means to show up for the people you love. This one is about motherhood, music, and the people behind it all. Wishing a very Happy Mother's Day to all our Femme Flock moms out there! Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

This episode of Flock Talk, we’re joined by Tina Varner (Goose Chicks) and Paige Caruso (El Goose Times)—two women helping shape the Goose community from the inside out. We get into how they found Goose, what pulled them from fans into leaders, and what it takes to build and sustain community-driven spaces. From moderation and daily content to running a fan-led publication, this episode dives into the intention and care behind the platforms so many people rely on. We also talk about women-centered spaces, the evolving role of women in the scene, and what it means to create something bigger than yourself. Content note: brief mention of suicide. If you’ve ever felt the pull to get more involved, this one’s for you. Flock on. Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

Goose is headed back to Europe for the first time since Fall 2023, and we’re getting you fully prepped for the adventure! This episode, Leighton sits down with Marinda Snowjams, Valerie Minor, and Casey—three Femme Flock community members who experienced the last Goose Euro run firsthand. Together, they reflect on what it’s really like to follow the band overseas. From booking trains and navigating new cities to the realities of budgeting, they share honest insights and unforgettable memories about the magic of tiny venues and seeing the same familiar faces night after night. We talk about how a European tour feels different from a U.S. run, what surprised us most about hopping between countries, and the practical things you’ll wish you knew before you go. If you’ve been thinking about making the trip in 2026, this episode might be your sign. Buy the ticket. Take the ride. Flock on. Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

Allow us to reintroduce ourselves…..😉 It’s 2026, and a lot has changed. In this episode of Flock Talk , we’re doing something a little different and sitting down as a team to reintroduce The Femme Flock—who we are, how we got here, and why this work matters to us. First, you’ll hear from each of our core team members, sharing their personal journeys into the jam scene and what led them to this community. Then we come together for a group conversation about The Femme Flock as a whole: our mission, our values, what we’re building, and where we’re headed next. If you’re new here, welcome. If you’ve been riding with us for a while, thanks for being part of the flock. If you’re here, you belong. Flock on! Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

This episode of Flock Talk, we’re joined by Ricki Blakesberg—photographer, archivist, and lifelong member of the jam band community—for a conversation about music, memory, and growing up inside the scene. Ricki shares what it was like being raised around live music and photography, including her relationship with her father, legendary Grateful Dead photographer Jay Blakesberg, and how she’s carved out her own creative path while carrying a well-known last name. We dive into her work preserving cultural history through photography and archiving, the stories behind the images, and why documentation is an act of care. From navigating womanhood and safety in a male-dominated music world to reflections on community, identity, and what the next generation of the jam scene can carry forward, Ricki brings honesty, perspective, and intention to a conversation about legacy—not just what we inherit, but what we choose to protect. Find Ricki: Instagram: lil_rix , Retro Blakesberg , Retro Photo Archive rockoutbooks.com blakesberg.com Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

This episode, NYC-based bassist, performer, and creative force Sarah Elaz joins us to talk about her journey from professional dance to the jam scene, picking up the bass during the pandemic, and building projects like Boojum, Bearly Dead, Bushwick’s Dead, and SEAP (Sarah Elaz’s Almost Phish). We dig into creative identity, imposter syndrome, stage presence, and the art of “being cringe” online. Sarah shares how fashion fuels her performance, how TikTok became part of her expression, and what it’s like navigating the scene as a woman on stage. She also opens up about her advocacy work and the women who’ve inspired her to show up fully, on stage and off. A conversation about performance, projection, and permission: to be bold, to be weird, to be seen. Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual violence. Where to find Sarah: Sarah Instagram Tik-Tok Linktree Boojum Website Instagram Facebook YouTube Spotify Bandcamp Linktree Bearly Dead Website Instagram Facebook X Bushwick's Dead Instagram Linktree Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

This episode on Flock Talk, we’re joined by Alexandra Jenna—creator of her namesake blog (originally Tour Wife, Tour Life) and one of the early voices documenting women’s experiences in the jam scene—for a conversation that spans love, music, and self-discovery. Alexandra shares her origin story in the jam scene, what it was really like being married to someone in a touring band, and the lessons she learned navigating life on the road. We dive into the early days of influencer culture (before it had a name), her experience building a brand in a male-dominated scene, and how her passion for style and self-expression has shaped her path. From memories of Goose’s early breakout moments to reflections on personal growth, safety, and finding joy in being a fan again, Alex opens up with honesty and humor about the many roles she’s played in the scene—and where she’s headed next. Check out her blog here https://www.alexandrajenna.com/ Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

This episode, we’re joined by Emily Bass, Executive Director of FEMME HOUSE, an organization dedicated to creating opportunities for women, gender-expansive, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ creatives in the technical and behind-the-scenes areas of music. Emily shares how FEMME HOUSE is breaking systemic barriers in production, mixing, engineering, and DJing through free workshops, online courses, mentorship, and a thriving community. We dive into Emily’s own journey from PR and crisis communications to leading FEMME HOUSE, the importance of representation both on stage and behind the boards, and why community is everything in today’s music landscape. PLUS: we chat about the parallels between the jam scene and rave culture, and why good music taste is half the battle when it comes to being a great DJ. Whether you’re an aspiring producer, a jam scene lifer, or simply curious about the future of music equity, this conversation proves that representation and community are the keys to lasting change. You can learn more about FEMME HOUSE at thisisfemmehouse.com and follow them on Instagram at @thisisfemmehouse Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

This episode, we’re flipping the script and hearing straight from the next generation of jam band lovers. Leighton sits down with two fellow Gen Z’ers, Anna Parks & Alex Corey, to explore what it really means to come of age in a scene often dominated by older crowds and deep-cut gatekeeping. From early memories of Phish and Widespread Panic to discovering Goose and chasing that New Year’s Eve show magic, Anna & Alex share the origin stories behind their love for the jam, their favorite show moments, most hilarious crowd encounters, and why they keep coming back for more. We get into the pros and cons of social media in the jam world, the balance between tradition and Gen Z’s fresh spin, and what it feels like to be underestimated from an age and gender standpoint — and then prove everyone wrong once the music starts. Whether you're a lifelong head, jam-curious, or taking a break from tour, this convo proves the jam scene’s spirit is alive and well — and the kids are more than all right. Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

This episode, we’re joined by the dynamic and hilarious Nico D’Elisa, aka Nico Suave, for a wide-ranging convo on voice, vulnerability, and claiming the stage. From belting Led Zeppelin classics with her tribute band Nico Suave and the Mothership to cracking up crowds with improvised musical comedy, Nico is a true multi-hyphenate force. We get into her Goosemas debut with Goose the band, her unexpected side gig as a medical actress (yes, really), and what it’s like to navigate the rock and comedy worlds as a woman with serious stage presence. Nico shares her origin story, her alter ego, and her dreams of hitting festival stages and maybe even SNL. Also in this episode: pelvic exams, frat bro roasts and Robert Plant channeling. It’s weird, it’s wild, and it’s wonderfully Nico. You can find Nico on Instagram @nicosuavedamame and follow Nico Suave and the Mothership here . __ Join WTed and the Wysteria Lane community! WTed Goose Radio is looking for women’s voices on the air. Lend your voice and become a GORP (Goose Obsessed Radio Personality). Reach out if you're interested in talking about a specific show or curating a playlist for the station. Get involved or tune in here: community.wysterialane.org WTedRadio.com Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

This episode on Flock Talk, we’re joined by the radiant and riotously real Karina Rykman—NYC-born bassist, bandleader, and jam scene trailblazer. From her earliest days in the New York City music world to the big stages with people like Mike Gordon and My Morning Jacket, Karina shares the winding, wonder-filled road of staying true to herself in a genre that wasn’t built for women—but now can’t exist without them. We talk about her pivot from sidewoman to frontwoman, and how staying consistent in her energy, sound, and spirit is the ultimate power move. Karina opens up about imposter syndrome, the thrill of being underestimated, and why high-tops, good food, and being a lifelong fan will always keep her grounded. Whether you’ve seen her tear up the stage, bop through NYC, or vibe out to her “ bad bitch hip hop ” playlist, this is a chance to hear what drives the electric joy behind Karina’s performances, and what’s next as she writes new music, plans a record, and keeps showing up with boldness and heart. You can find out about what Karina is up to and snag tickets to her next shows here: https://www.karinarykman.com/ __ WTed Goose Radio is looking for women’s voices on the air! Lend your voice and become a GORP (Goose Obsessed Radio Personality). Reach out if you're interested in talking about a specific show or curating a playlist for the station. Get involved or tune in: community.wysterialane.org WTedRadio.com Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

The Flock Talks with Sarah Blazincic and Cari Bryce from the Western Sun Foundation, a volunteer-run nonprofit supporting small to mid-sized organizations in the communities Goose fans travel through. They share how they got involved with WSF, the foundation’s mission, and how they select beneficiary organizations that champion causes ranging from music education and therapy to women’s and children’s health, climate action, and more. We also talk about Goose's role in fundraising, favorite campaign memories, and powerful full-circle moments where they’ve seen real change take shape. ✨ PLUS: Sarah and Cari share an exclusive announcement: the beneficiary for Goose’s upcoming Summer 2025 Tour! Want to get involved with the Western Sun Foundation? We cover how you can donate, sign up for an event, and participate in the upcoming online auction. Learn more about the Western Sun Foundation’s mission or donate: www.westernsunfoundation.org/ ——————————————————————————————— WTed Goose Radio is looking for women’s voices on the air! Lend your voice and become a GORP (Goose Obsessed Radio Personality). Reach out if you're interested in talking about a specific show or curating a playlist for the station. Get involved or tune in: community.wysterialane.org WTedRadio.com The Western Sun Foundation's Goose Summer 2025 Tour Beneficiary: Around the Bend Farms ✨ Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

What is it like to be a woman shaping the conversation in the jam band scene? This episode, we sit down with Megan Glionna, host of HFPod, Library Card, and A Moment with Meg to talk about her journey from jam fan to podcasting powerhouse. She shares how she carved out space in a male dominated scene, the power of storytelling in music and books, and why fashion at shows is way more than just looking cute—it’s self expression, confidence, and community. We also get into the realities of being the only woman in the room, navigating networking when the rules aren’t the same for men and women, and the weirdness of parasocial relationships when you’ve spent hours talking on a mic. Plus, we manifest Megan’s dream interview with Waxahatchee and chat about the importance of joy on stage, in the crowd, and in life. Whether you’re a podcast junkie, a book lover, or just here for the jam band fashion discourse, this episode is for you. Listen to Megan: HFPod - Library Card - A Moment with Meg @the_megan_dance on Instagram and Bluesky Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

What if your pre-show ritual could help you feel more grounded, open-hearted, and connected? This week, we sit down with Hannah and Kait, the Cacao Girls, to dive into the world of cacao and cacao ceremonies. They share how cacao, a sacred plant medicine and superfood, became an essential part of their practice, the spiritual energy of Mama Cacao, and how their ceremonies have helped bands like Goose find focus and flow before a show. We also get into the intersection of spirituality and live music, the power of intentional rituals, and what it’s like leading ceremonies in a male-dominated space. Whether you’re curious about cacao or just love a good pre-show routine, this episode is full of insight, inspiration, and maybe even a nudge to grab your own ceremonial mug. https://www.hannahandkait.com/ @hannah.and.kait Thank you to our sponsor www.MattforMath.com ! If you or your kid needs math tutoring, support someone from our community 😊 Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

This Galentine’s Day, we’re shining a light on six women who make our jam community more creative, vibrant, and inspiring. We invited small artists and creators to share their stories in their own words—how they got started, what fuels their passion, and the pieces they love most for gifting to your gals. We loved hearing from these ladies, and we are so excited to share their voices with you. Tune in to discover incredible artists, support women-owned businesses, and maybe even snag a promo code or two. A huge thank you to all the creators who took the time to be part of this episode. We’re honored to celebrate your work and be part of the community you help build. We can’t wait for the Femme Flock community to discover and support all that you create. Jacalyn - Turned Clouds Watercolor Nora Brody - Worldwide Mycelium Network Lorrie Griggs - Drifter Merch Kelsey Sterrett - Jive Leigh Designs Caroline Herbster - Rising Tide Art Studio Caroline Keenum - Golden Goddess Expressions Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

The Femme Flock kicks off 2025 with Andy Frasco! Niki and Jess reflect on the past year, set intentions for 2025 and share what the Femme Flock means to us as we celebrate one year of the podcast. Then, we’re joined by Andy Frasco for an honest and hilarious conversation about mental health, personal growth, and staying grounded in the live music scene. Andy opens up about lessons learned on the road, his goals for the new year, and how he’s embracing a more mindful approach to life and music. Join us as we reground, reflect, and set the tone for the year ahead! Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

The Femme Flock gets hyped for Goosemas 2024 with the incredible crew behind Nite Zero! Join us as we chat with the Nite Zero Band and Planning Crew, the Conscious Alliance Executive Director Justin Levy, and our headlining band Dizgo about the 2nd annual Goosemas Nite Zero Charity Event and Community Gathering. This year’s event takes place on December 12th in Charleston, South Carolina—don’t miss it! Nite Zero Tickets and Donations Wysteria Lane WTED Goose Radio Conscious Alliance Dizgo Andrew Pickel Kevin Hinnefeld Jake Evatt Justin "Silky J" Clark Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

This month, the Femme Flock dives into the world of jam band fashion! We chat with Brooke from Baba Cool sunglasses about running a business in the scene, selling on lot, and the journey behind her brand. Then, we have a fun conversation with longtime Phan and fashionista, Maggie, as she shares her personal style, festival fashion tips, and some must-check-out artists and shops. Join us for an inside look at how fashion, music, and community come together in the jam band world. Featured Artists and Brands: BabaCool Rad and Refined Treysties Pasties Nice Shades Girl Tour Tail Pheathers Reclaimed Purpose Warrior within Designs Damselfly Nuuly Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.

The Femme Flock celebrates Pride Month with special interviews featuring two LGBTQ+ guests: Brian Piatkowski, a longtime out Deadhead, and Asher Collins, a trans Phan and Goose fan. Tune in as we share their stories, delve into their experiences within the jam community, and discuss the importance of allyship from our non-LGBTQ+ listeners. Communities & Resources: Coach Asher Brian Robert Community for Phans Erin In the Morning Anti-Trans Legislative Risk Map The Trevor Project Stay up to date with The Femme Flock! Our Website Instagram @the.femme.flock TikTok @FemmeFlockTok Bluesky Facebook Fill in our Get Involved form here if you want to join the flock! 💖 Music Credit: "Starving" - Octosound This podcast is produced in partnership with Osiris Media.