Tuesday, March 17, 2026

New Orleans Jazz Clarinetist Benjamin Cusins on What We Dream It To Be & His Career | Neon Jazz Exclusive

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with New Orleans–based jazz clarinetist and composer Benjamin Cusins.

We dive into his debut 2026 album What We Dream It To Be, a forward-looking and reflective project that reconnects with the optimism of childhood while exploring the power of honoring dreams and realizing their full potential.

From his roots in New Orleans to studying at Berklee College of Music and eventually returning home, Benjamin’s journey is a compelling story of growth, creativity, and musical identity.

In this conversation, we explore his influences, his evolution as an artist, and the deeper inspiration behind his music.

Dig this interview with a rising voice in modern jazz.

🎶 Get the album & learn more:
https://www.benjamincousins.com/

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Monday, March 16, 2026

Rodney Eric Lopez Interview – Mad Hot Ballroom, Dance, Culture & His New Memoir

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with accomplished educator, artist, dancer, author, and nonprofit leader Rodney Eric Lopez.

Rodney has built a career at the intersection of arts, education, and community leadership. He is the CEO of Rodney Eric Lopez Enterprises and was featured in the acclaimed documentary Mad Hot Ballroom, a film that captured the power of dance education in New York City schools.

He is also the author of the forthcoming memoir I Don’t Speak Spanish, but I Understand Everything When I’m Dancing!, a powerful story that connects dance, language, culture, and identity.

From his roots in Puerto Rico to life in The Bronx and later Rhode Island, Rodney’s journey is one of creativity, resilience, and cultural connection. Through dance and education, he continues to inspire audiences and communities.

We talk about his career, his passion for the arts, and the deeper story behind his upcoming memoir.

Dig this interview.

📚 Get the book and learn more:
https://www.rodneyericlopez.com/ 

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Dr. Nafisa Sekandari Interview – Burnout, Anxiety & Success for High-Achieving Women

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with international speaker and holistic, integrative licensed clinical psychologist Nafisa Sekandari.

Dr. Sekandari helps high-achieving women reduce anxiety, recover from burnout, and feel calm, confident, and empowered in both their personal and professional lives. With more than a decade of experience in mental health, she blends psychology, neuroscience, and mind-body practices to address stress and success at the root.

Known for her grounded and relatable approach, Dr. Sekandari speaks on emotional regulation, confidence, and sustainable success. Her work helps women lead, build wealth, and perform at a high level without sacrificing their well-being.

From her early life in Afghanistan to building a career helping people thrive in the United States, her journey is inspiring and powerful.

We talk about her work, her philosophy on mental wellness, and the deeper path toward sustainable success.

Enjoy this conversation.

More Dr. Sekandari:
https://www.drsekandari.com/

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Adam Torres Interview – Top 2% Podcaster & Author of 1 Billion Podcasts | Famous Interviews

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with author, podcaster, speaker, and co-founder of Mission Matters Media Adam Torres.

Adam is a Top 2% podcaster and the #1 bestselling author of the book 1 Billion Podcasts: The Future of ALL Media. As co-founder of Mission Matters Media, he helps amplify the voices of entrepreneurs, entertainers, executives, and experts around the world.

An international speaker and author of multiple bestselling books, Adam’s insights and advice have been featured in major outlets including Forbes, Yahoo! Finance, Fox Business, and CBS.

In this conversation, we dive into his journey into podcasting, the evolution of modern media, and how entrepreneurs can leverage storytelling and platforms to grow their influence.

It’s an insightful conversation about media, branding, and the future of podcasting. Dig this interview.

More Adam Torres:
https://www.askadamtorres.com/

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Terry Bean Interview – Author of ABRACADABRA on Finding Your Happy Place | Famous Interviews

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with author and life & professional coach Terry Bean.

These days she lives in Queens, where she cares for her mother, to whom her book is dedicated. Her journey as a life and professional coach has always been guided by one belief: everyone holds the power to create a beautiful life.

Through her book ABRACADABRA, she encourages both children and adults to discover their own “happy place” and embrace the unique path that shapes who they are. Her hope is that this message helps create a kinder, more connected world.

In this conversation, we explore her story, her coaching philosophy, and the inspiration behind her work helping people find clarity, healing, and purpose.

It’s a powerful story of hope, growth, and transformation. Enjoy this interview.

📚 Learn more about Terry Bean:
https://terrybeanauthor.com/

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Nneoma Lanea Interview – Rising Kansas City Jazz Saxophonist & Singer | Neon Jazz

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with Kansas City–based jazz saxophonist, singer, and songwriter Nneoma Lanea.

We caught up with this rising jazz artist to talk about her Kansas City roots, musical influences, dreams, and what the future may hold. From her early passion for music to becoming part of the vibrant jazz culture of Kansas City, Nneoma is carving out a compelling voice in today’s scene.

This conversation explores the heart of her musical vision, the inspiration behind her artistry, and where she hopes to be a decade from now as her career continues to grow.

The spark for this interview came after seeing Nneoma perform at the Noon at Thursday jazz series at The Blue Room in early March 2026—an experience that showcased the power and promise of this emerging talent.

Dig this inside look at a rising force in the Kansas City jazz community.

🎶 Follow Nneoma:
https://www.instagram.com/nneomamusic/

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Sunday, March 15, 2026

Steve Wilson Interview – Enduring Sonace | Jazz Saxophonist on New 2026 Album

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with acclaimed jazz saxophonist and flutist Steve Wilson about his 2026 album Enduring Sonace.

On this beautiful new project, Steve reflects on a lifetime of lyrical and deeply felt songs drawn from jazz, pop, and film—music that lingers in the imagination long after the final note fades.

The album features an all-star ensemble including pianist Renee Rosnes, vibraphonist Joe Locke, bassist Jay Anderson, and drummer Kendrick Scott. Together, they bring these timeless melodies to life with elegance, emotion, and masterful musicianship.

Released through Smoke Sessions Records, Enduring Sonace explores the power of songs that stay with us across time and memory.

In this conversation, we talk about the making of the album, touring, and reflections on life and music in modern America. Steve last appeared on Neon Jazz in 2015, and a lot has happened since then. We dive into the journey and the music.

Enjoy this Neon Jazz interview.

🎶 Get the album:
https://smokesessionsrecords.com/ 

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