Wednesday, October 21, 2026

Multi-Instrumentalist Rob Scheps | Blue States (2026) | Core-tet, SteepleChase & More

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed jazz multi-instrumentalist and composer Rob Scheps. With deep Kansas City roots, Rob returns to Neon Jazz to discuss his 2026 album, Blue States, and his latest chapter with the long-running Core-tet on the legendary SteepleChase label.

Building on a career defined by musical curiosity and consistently compelling recordings, Blue States finds Rob continuing to evolve the Core-tet sound. With a vibrant frontline featuring trumpet, soprano saxophone, and flute, the ensemble reimagines music by Shunzo Ohno, Carla Bley, Sam Jones, Ronnie Boykins, and John Abercrombie through its distinctive musical voice.

Rob is joined by pianist Jamie Reynolds, bassist David Kingsnorth, trumpeter Jim O'Connor and drummer Victor Jones for a project that blends thoughtful arrangements, adventurous interplay, and a deep respect for jazz tradition with a forward-looking spirit.

We explore the inspiration behind Blue States, Rob's return to SteepleChase, the evolution of Core-tet, his Kansas City connections, and the creative drive behind a career built on musical excellence. It's a fascinating conversation with an artist continuing to push forward while honoring the music and musicians who came before him.

🎧 Discover more from Rob Scheps:

Website: https://www.robschepsmusic.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnzuBFkZdZVsr-Qtx6QMlrQ

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Business Scaling Architect and Leadership Mentor Lady Jen Du Plessis

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we sit down with Lady Jen Du Plessis — The Business Scaling Architect and Sovereign Leadership Mentor — for a fascinating conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, personal growth, and what it really takes to build lasting success.

After generating more than $400 million in revenue across multiple businesses, Lady Jen now helps established founders and CEOs strengthen their leadership, build high-performing teams, improve business systems, and develop strategic relationships. Her mission? Help entrepreneurs scale their businesses without allowing the business to consume their lives.

An award-winning international speaker, bestselling author, and host of three podcasts and the television show Business on the Vine, Lady Jen brings decades of experience and insight to the world of business and personal transformation.

From her home base in Virginia, we explore her rise to success, the dreams that drove her forward, the struggles that shaped her journey, and the lessons she has learned along the way. We also dive into sustainable business growth, leadership, team building, and the importance of creating a life that reflects your own definition of success.

It's an engaging conversation about ambition, resilience, purpose, and building a legacy while you're still living it.

Learn more about Lady Jen Du Plessis:
https://ladyjenduplessis.com/

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Tuesday, October 20, 2026

Founder & Executive Director Cat How on Branding, Creativity & Building Famous Brands | How&How

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Cat How, founder and executive director of the global branding agency How&How, about creativity, brand strategy, design, entrepreneurship, female leadership, and using business to make a difference.

With studios in London and Los Angeles, How&How helps brands stand out through fresh thinking, distinctive design, and impactful storytelling. Cat's journey to building the agency began in journalism, where she became an award-winning journalist and design critic, before studying Communication Design at Central Saint Martins and launching How&How in 2020.

But Cat's mission extends beyond branding. A committed advocate for equality and climate action, she founded GetSet, a pro-bono climate initiative, and GetEven, a female leadership mentorship program. She also serves as an ambassador for UN Women, Clean Creatives, and We Show the Salary, and mentors emerging creative talent through D&AD Shift and Adobe.

In this conversation, we explore Cat's path from journalism and design criticism to creative entrepreneurship, the art of making brands memorable, and the importance of building a more inclusive and sustainable creative industry.

From brand identity and visual storytelling to climate advocacy, mentorship, and empowering women in leadership, Cat shares the experiences and ideas behind her work and vision.

If you're interested in branding, graphic design, creative business, marketing strategy, female entrepreneurship, and purpose-driven leadership, this is an inspiring conversation you won't want to miss.

MORE CAT HOW & HOW&HOW

Website: https://how.studio/

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Advocate & Founder Carol Waldman on Autism, Neurodiversity & Life After School | The Waldman Way

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with parent advocate, policy veteran, and founder of The Waldman Way Carol Waldman about autism, neurodiversity, advocacy, and helping young adults transition from school into work and independent adulthood.

When Carol's son Andrew was diagnosed with autism at age four, there was no clear roadmap for the journey ahead. Carol learned the Individualized Education Program (IEP) system, advocated for the support he needed, and helped him discover his strengths.

In 2024, Andrew graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison with a degree in political science. Along the way, he traveled through Europe independently and completed an internship in Washington, D.C. His journey reflects the possibilities that can emerge when young adults receive support, opportunities, and the chance to build independence.

Today, Carol is focused on another critical transition: what happens when school-based services end and neurodivergent young adults and their families must navigate employment, adult services, and independent living without a clear path forward?

Through The Waldman Way, Carol supports families and works to address the gaps that can leave young adults without the guidance and resources they need after graduation.

Carol also brings a wealth of public policy experience to her advocacy. She is a former California State Legislature staffer and an Executive Board Member of the California Democratic Party.

In this inspiring conversation, we explore parenting, autism advocacy, education, IEPs, public policy, employment opportunities, and the importance of building a future in which neurodivergent young adults can pursue their goals and thrive.

MORE CAROL WALDMAN & THE WALDMAN WAY

Website: http://www.thewaldmanway.org/ 

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Poet & Teacher Loren Broaddus on Newt Allen, Loving Baseball & His Life

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Springfield, Missouri-based poet and teacher Loren Broaddus about his 2026 poetry collection, Wasn’t Any Maybe So: Poems from the Life of Newt Allen, and his lifelong love of baseball, teaching, and writing.

Newt Allen was a star second baseman for the legendary Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro Leagues. In this remarkable collection, Loren brings Allen's voice to life through poetry, exploring a world shaped by discrimination and Jim Crow while also capturing its vibrant culture, humanity, and rich experiences.

As Loren describes it, Newt Allen seemed to be tapping him on the shoulder for years, calling him to write not a history or biography, but a book of poems in his voice—a creative approach that gives Allen the freedom to tell his story in a deeply personal way.

We also explore Loren's journey as a writer and educator, his debut poetry collection, Joe DiMaggio Moves Like Liquid Light, published in 2019, and the everyday moments that have inspired his work over the years. From poems written on scrap paper and the backs of hall passes to the influence of his former Drury University English professor, Jo Van Arkel, Loren shares the experiences that shaped his creative life.

With academic backgrounds in history and education, Loren brings a distinctive perspective to baseball history, poetry, and the stories that connect generations.

If you're passionate about the Negro Leagues, Kansas City Monarchs history, baseball legends, American poetry, and the power of storytelling, this is an interview you won't want to miss.

MORE LOREN BROADDUS & HIS NEW BOOK

Website: https://www.lorenbroaddus.com/

Wasn’t Any Maybe So: Poems from the Life of Newt Allen:
https://406press.com/product/wasnt-any-maybe-so/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loren.broaddus/

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Author, Speaker & Advisor Fred Halperin on Leadership, Organizational Change & His Book Rebel-OS

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with author, speaker, and advisor Fred Halperin about leadership, organizational transformation, executive decision-making, and his new book, Rebel-OS.

For more than 40 years, Fred has been invited into the inner sanctum of senior leadership at some of the world's most important and influential organizations. His approach is direct and constructive, grounded in the belief that many leaders already recognize something isn't working in the way their organizations operate—but need the right insights and strategies to address it.

With decades of experience advising senior executives, Fred brings a distinctive perspective on leadership challenges, organizational effectiveness, and the changes required to move organizations forward. His book, Rebel-OS, reflects his experience, passion, and commitment to helping leaders rethink established approaches and create meaningful progress.

Based in New Jersey, Fred shares his professional journey, leadership philosophy, and insights into what it takes to challenge conventional thinking and build more effective organizations.

If you're interested in executive leadership, business strategy, organizational change, management, and fresh perspectives on how organizations work, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

More Fred Halperin:
Website: https://rebel-os-group.com/

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Former Athlete, Coach & Entrepreneur Javier Gutierrez on Fitness, Discipline & Building Strength for Life

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with former professional athlete, speaker, entrepreneur, actor, and strength coach Javier Gutierrez about fitness, discipline, mindset, faith, leadership, and building a stronger life.

After more than a decade playing professional baseball and over 15 years coaching clients of all ages and backgrounds, Javier has built his career around one core belief: lasting results come from discipline, consistency, and mastering the fundamentals.

Today, he helps busy professionals, executives, athletes, and everyday individuals improve their health, build strength, increase longevity, and develop sustainable habits that extend far beyond the gym. His coaching philosophy combines practical fitness strategies with personal responsibility, leadership, mindset, and faith.

Based in Chicago, Javier shares his journey from professional baseball to coaching and entrepreneurship, along with insights into physical fitness, mental toughness, personal growth, and creating lasting change.

If you're interested in strength training, healthy living, athletic performance, fitness motivation, leadership, and becoming the best version of yourself, this conversation is for you.

Connect with Javier Gutierrez:

Website: https://www.javiergutierrez.net/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitnesswjavier

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/javier-gutierrez-201b40126/

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Trombonist Steve Davis Interview | Meets Hank Jones, Vol. 2 (2026) | Jazz History & Timeless Swing

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed trombonist Steve Davis, returning to the program to share the remarkable story behind his 2026 album, Steve Davis Meets Hank Jones, Volume 2.

In June 2008, Steve Davis, bassist Peter Washington, and legendary pianist Hank Jones entered the studio for a session that was never intended to become a major archival release. Just a month before Jones’s 90th birthday, and a year and a half after undergoing quadruple bypass surgery, the jazz icon still possessed the musical brilliance, elegance, and unmistakable touch that made him a legend. Jones passed away in 2010, but the magic captured during that session endured.

It took 15 years for this music to begin reaching listeners, with the first volume arriving in 2024. Now, Volume 2 continues the story, offering another opportunity to hear a master at work alongside two outstanding jazz musicians.

We dig into the history behind these recordings, the experience of playing with Hank Jones, the journey from studio session to album release, and the enduring power of great jazz. It's a rich, fascinating conversation about musicianship, legacy, and the moments that make jazz history.

🎧 Get the album, Steve Davis Meets Hank Jones, Volume 2:
https://stevedavissmoke.bandcamp.com/album/steve-davis-meets-hank-jones-volume-2

It's great to have Steve Davis back on Neon Jazz for this unforgettable story. Dig the jazz, my friends.

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Monday, October 19, 2026

Saxophonist Paul Carlon Interview | Between Us Three (2026) | Modern Jazz, AI & Musical Connection

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with jazz saxophonist and composer Paul Carlon, returning to the program to discuss his stellar 2026 trio album, Between Us Three!

We catch up with Paul for a wide-ranging conversation about the inspiration and hopes behind this new project, the art of making music in today's ever-changing world, and the importance of human creativity and connection. We also explore the growing presence of artificial intelligence in everyday life, the energy of live performances, and what it means to keep creating, collaborating, and moving forward as a musician in the modern era.

Paul brings thoughtful perspective and musical insight to a conversation that goes beyond the notes. It's always a pleasure to welcome him back to Neon Jazz, and this time we're diving deep into the ideas and artistry behind Between Us Three.

🎧 Get the album, Between Us Three:
https://trrstore.bandcamp.com/album/between-us-three

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Sunday, October 18, 2026

Italy-born, NYC-based Musician Noe Socha: View From Inside | Guitar, Harmonica & Blues-Infused Jazz

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Italy-born, NYC-based guitarist and harmonica player Noe Socha. We get into his new 2026 album View From Inside and a stellar life in the world of music.

Originally from the small town of Carpi, Italy, Noe has developed a distinctive musical voice shaped by folk icons Bob Dylan and Neil Young, Delta blues legends Mississippi John Hurt, Muddy Waters, and Lightnin’ Hopkins, along with a touch of Jimi Hendrix-inspired fire. His signature sound blends fiery guitar technique, virtuosic harmonica playing, blues-rooted expression, and an adventurous musical spirit.

Over the years, Noe has toured, performed, and recorded with a wide range of artists, building a career defined by versatility, passion, and originality. He was also recently featured in a Netflix documentary from Norman’s Rare Guitars, bringing his musical journey and guitar artistry to an even wider audience.

We explore the inspiration behind View From Inside, his evolution as a guitarist and harmonica player, the musical influences that shaped his sound, his journey from Italy to New York City, and the experiences that have defined his life in music.

Discover more about Noe Socha:

http://www.noemusic.net/ 

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Saturday, October 17, 2026

Ilaria Capalbo Interview | The Brightest Sun (2026) | Motherhood, Creativity & Experimental Jazz

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring Stockholm-based Italian bassist and composer Ilaria Capalbo! We caught up with Ilaria to explore her new 2026 album, The Brightest Sun, her journey in music, and the life experiences that shaped this deeply personal project.

Inspired by the transformative experience of motherhood, The Brightest Sun emerged from fragmented composing sessions while Ilaria was expecting her child and during the early days of motherhood. The result is music with an experimental, exploratory quality, reflecting a creative process shaped by change, discovery, and a new perspective on life.

We discuss the inspiration behind the album, the realities of balancing motherhood and music, her evolving artistic voice, and the journey that brought this compelling new work to life. Join us for an engaging conversation about creativity, transformation, and the power of musical exploration.

🎧 Get the album, The Brightest Sun:
https://ilariacapalbo.bandcamp.com/album/the-brightest-sun

Subscribe for more Neon Jazz interviews featuring jazz musicians, composers, and adventurous artists from around the world. 

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Friday, October 16, 2026

Cheri Baugh Woods: Two Leukemia Battles, Faith & Miracles Still Happen | Inspirational Story

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series .. On this episode, we talk with faith-based speaker, leukemia survivor, and author of Win-Win: Miracles Still Happen, Cheri Baugh Woods. After facing two forms of leukemia, a bone marrow transplant, two brain surgeries, divorce, widowhood, and other life-changing challenges, Cheri has transformed her experiences into a message of hope, resilience, faith, and purpose.

Cheri brings a powerful perspective to life’s most difficult seasons. Her story is not simply about what she survived, but about the lessons she learned along the way and how those lessons can help others navigate their own struggles. Through honest conversation, personal stories, and practical takeaways, she encourages people to keep moving forward, trust God through uncertainty, and discover that their circumstances do not have to define their future.

We explore her remarkable journey, the role of faith in overcoming adversity, finding meaning amid uncertainty, building resilience through life’s toughest moments, and recognizing hope when the path forward seems unclear. Cheri’s message reminds us that even in the midst of profound challenges, new possibilities can emerge and miracles still happen.

Learn more about Cheri Baugh Woods, her book, and her inspirational work:
https://www.authorcheribaughwoods.com/

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Award-Winning Filmmaker & Storyteller Helix Wolfson on AI, Creativity & More

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series .. On this episode, we talk with award-winning filmmaker and AI storyteller Helix Wolfson about reinvention, emerging technology, creativity, and the evolving relationship between technology and humanity.

With more than 25 years of experience across film, brand content, the metaverse, and emerging technology, Helix has built a remarkable career at the intersection of innovation and human connection. He co-founded Infinite Reality, produced the official virtual Burning Man experience in 2020, and now creates AI-generated content for major brands, including a Hyundai commercial produced entirely with artificial intelligence. His work has helped shape campaigns for globally recognized names such as Google, Microsoft, BMW, Uber, AT&T, Toyota, and Burning Man.

But Helix’s story goes far beyond filmmaking and technology. Known for taking unconventional paths, he legally changed his name and ran for Mayor of Los Angeles as Paul E. Amori, the “Mayor of Love,” turning a political campaign into a broader conversation about connection, community, and possibility.

We explore his creative evolution, the future of AI-generated video and advertising, the opportunities and challenges of AI storytelling, the power of brand narratives, and how emerging technologies can create deeper human experiences. We also dig into the experiences, ideas, and unexpected turns that have shaped Helix’s fascinating journey.

Connect with Helix Wolfson:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helixwolfson/?isSelfProfile=false
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helixalot/
Website: https://www.heliximagen.ai/helixwolfson

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Steve Rawlins: Word on the Street | Jazz Composer, Arranger & Pianist on His Remarkable Musical Journey

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed Jazz Composer, Arranger & Pianist Steve Rawlins. We get into his new 2026 release, Word on the Street, and a remarkable life spent in the world of music.

After more than five decades composing, arranging, performing and helping other artists realize their musical visions, Steve Rawlins steps fully into the spotlight with Word on the Street. This vibrant ensemble recording brings together music from different chapters of his career while introducing fresh compositions shaped specifically for his wildly adventurous quintet.

Steve’s career spans an extraordinary range of musical experiences. He has arranged music for legendary recording artists including Smokey Robinson, Bette Midler and Chaka Khan. His work has also reached the stages of the Academy Awards and Emmy Award ceremonies, along with television productions including The Crazy Ones, 24 and Jeopardy!.

In this conversation, we explore Steve’s new album, his creative process, the evolution of his musical voice and the experiences that have shaped more than 50 years in the business. We dig into the art of jazz composition and arranging, working with celebrated artists, and finally bringing his own musical vision to the forefront with Word on the Street.

From a lifetime behind the scenes to a fresh chapter leading his own adventurous quintet, Steve Rawlins has a tremendous story to tell.

Enjoy this interview, celebrate a remarkable musical career, and discover the sounds of Word on the Street.

GET THE ALBUM & MORE: 
https://www.steverawlins.com/

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Thursday, October 15, 2026

Drummer & Composer Phil Haynes on Terra, Ben Monder & a Lifetime in Jazz

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with jazz drummer and composer Phil Haynes, discussing his 2026 album Terra and the creative journey behind it.

Since publishing his acclaimed 2023 memoir, Chasing the Masters, Phil has entered a prolific new chapter of his musical life. The writing process prompted him to revisit his past, reconnect with old friends, and reunite with longtime collaborators—including musicians he hadn't worked with in decades.

His new album, Terra, brings those threads together through a fresh musical collaboration that spans generations. Released on his own Corner Store Jazz imprint, the project features guitarist Ben Monder and revives a duo partnership that had been dormant for more than a quarter century.

In this conversation, we explore the inspiration behind Terra, the lasting impact of musical relationships, the reflections sparked by Chasing the Masters, and how revisiting the past can open the door to new creative possibilities. We also dig into Phil's life as a drummer, composer, bandleader, and independent artist navigating an ever-evolving jazz landscape.

Terra is more than a new recording—it's a story of reconnection, musical discovery, and the enduring power of collaboration.

🎧 Get Phil Haynes' album Terra on Bandcamp:
https://philhaynesmusic.bandcamp.com/album/terra

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Zak Barnett: Master Acting Coach on Hollywood, Creative Blocks & Finding Your Purpose

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series .. On this episode, we talk with Zak Barnett, Founder of Zak Barnett Studios, thought leader, and master acting coach. Based in Los Angeles, Zak has spent more than a decade training some of Hollywood’s most promising emerging talents, from kids booking their first roles to Oscar and Emmy winners.

Zak views acting as a martial art — a lifelong practice built on self-awareness, courage, discipline, and purpose. His approach goes beyond performance, helping actors understand themselves more deeply, break through creative blocks, and build the confidence to bring their fullest selves to their work and everyday lives.

We explore Zak’s personal journey, his timeline in the entertainment industry, the craft and business of acting, and what it takes to grow as a performer in Hollywood. We also dig into how overcoming creative barriers can unlock greater confidence, authenticity, and purpose both on camera and off.

Discover more about Zak Barnett and his work:
https://zakbarnett.com/

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Jason Guy: Boudoir Photography, Confidence & the Art of Beautiful Portraits

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series .. On this episode, we talk with entrepreneur and photographer Jason Guy, the creative eye behind boudoir photography that helps everyday women discover their most confident selves through flattering poses, stunning light, and beautiful imagery.

Jason’s journey into boudoir photography began almost by accident. When he decided to take portrait photography seriously, he turned to family and friends to practice his lighting and technical skills. But he quickly discovered that great photography required more than mastering a camera. He needed to learn how to direct and pose people in ways that brought out their best. That realization led him to study boudoir photography and develop his own approach to creating striking, confidence-building portraits.

Today, Jason brings together technical skill, artistic vision, and an understanding of how posing and lighting can transform an image. We explore his journey as an entrepreneur and photographer, the craft of boudoir photography, helping clients feel comfortable in front of the camera, and his life as a devoted husband and proud father based in California.

Discover more about Jason and his photography:
https://jgboudoir.com/

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