Episodes

Thursday Jun 12, 2025
S1 E4: Pt 2 | The Brett Axelson Story | Joyce Behind The Mic™ Official
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
🎙️ Joyce Behind The Mic™ Podcast - S1: E4, Pt 2
🎬 Brett Axelson's Story: Music, Loss & Keeping the Light On
🤝 S1 E4: Pt 2 Episode Sponsor:
403 Eats | Tomball TX
“30 million streams, $700 check” — That’s the reality. You heard right. And that’s the moment Brett Axelson lays it down: streaming doesn’t pay the bills—showing up does.
“We’re out here grinding. Not for clout. Not for clicks. For connection.”
In this soul-baring sit-down, Brett opens up about the brutal truth behind the music industry today:
• Why tribute bands are thriving—but original artists are drowning
• How social media algorithms are silencing local voices
• Why it’s never been harder to sell a ticket (but more important to try)
• And why live music might be on life support
Brett also shares an unforgettable story that reveals the true power of music. While performing in Austin, Brett recalls a homeless man who would place his hand on the window to feel the vibrations of the band’s music—a silent communion in sound. One freezing night, Brett stepped off stage mid-set to wrap the man in his own leather jacket and gloves. “Music gave me moments that I can look back and go, ‘I'm glad I did it.’"
That moment becomes a reflection of Brett’s life philosophy—music is a gift, but the real gift is what it brings you: deeply human moments that stretch beyond the stage.
From Austin stages to heartfelt stories, Brett Axelson gets real about life, music, and what keeps him going. We dive deep into Brett’s journey—from his 90s rock-star moments to soulful riffs inspired by family, loss, and everyday laughs. Plus, a rapid-fire freestyle, pet peeves, politics, and a powerful reminder: “Let your sweetness tear down the walls of anger.”
We talk:
🎙️ A $36,000 studio hustle
🎙️ Sneaky fans climbing fences to get into shows
🎙️ Radio airplay next to Bon Jovi
🎙️ Personal stories of loss and gratitude
🎙️ Live music’s survival in today’s streaming era
🎙️ Candid takes on politics, pet peeves & positivity
🎙️ Freestyle music improv and creative process
If you love music, real talk, and hope with a side of humor, this one’s for you. Hit play and feel 'em all.
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📺 ABOUT THE SHOW:
Welcome to the Joyce Behind The Mic™ Podcast!
The show where [LIFE + LIVING + LIVE MUSIC] take center stage!
📺🎧 Yes, we LOVE our local music-makers, BUT Joyce Behind The Mic™ is MORE than a music-centric podcast show! All JBTM Episodes feature exclusive video interviews as well as candid convos from inspiring and influential brands, expert advice from a variety of industry leaders, jaw-dropping testimonies from huggable hometown heroes and brave Military Veterans who want to share their personal stories!
🎶🤣 Don't worry, the WOW doesn't stop there!
📺 On the Joyce Behind The Mic™ Podcast show, enjoy everything from regular doses of craveable in-studio music performances to behind-the-scenes fun, fired up vibes, and hilarious gameplay with our in-studio guests!
🎬🎙️ Be sure to follow recognized “Woman of Influence”, Founder of Cypress Music Scene™, Local Entertainer, Author & Entrepreneur - Joyce Behind The Mic™ and tune in to the show where guests' personal stories come alive, local legends shine, and EVERY episode hits just the right note!
🔔🔨 SO - go ahead - smash that SUBSCRIBE button —trust us, you’ll be glad you did because you DON’T wanna miss these mic drops! 🙌
▶️ Now Streaming on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify & Audacy Radio!
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🔔 STREAM | SUBSCRIBE on Social Media
@joycebehindthemic
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📺 Joyce Behind The Mic™ Podcast Show
🎬 S1: E4 | Brett Axelson
🎙️ Show Host | Exec Producer: Joyce Skala
▶️ Original Air Date | June 2025
🎶 Live-Music Performance: Brett Axelson Music (@brettrenmusic)
🤝 JBTM AFFILIATES:
Cypress Music Scene
HAWT Button Entertainment
🤝 S1: E4 SPONSOR INFO
403 Eats | Live Music Events + Food Truck Park
www.403eats.com
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Thursday Jun 12, 2025
S1: E1 | Johnny Talley - Musician & Songwriter | Joyce Behind The Mic™ Official
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
#01 | Johnny Talley | December 2024 Show Host | Producer: Joyce Skala "LIFE AMPLIFIED!"
Episode #01 – Johnny Talley GUEST HIGHLIGHT: Watch this episode to learn about the many hats that Johnny Talley wears! He’s a seasoned guitarist from Texas who’s performed with and alongside the awarded Texas-based country bands, Whiskey Meyers and Flatland Calvary. He released his newest single “One of Those Nights” in October 2024 and he’s performing it LIVE during this episode! By day, he’s a flight paramedic and - as if that wasn't impressive enough - he’s also a student of psychology!
During his recent interview Johnny shared one of his amazing secret talents with me (literally), we discussed Johnny’s professional journey in the music biz – he even shares his success-proven PRO-TIPS with the audience offering valuable insight on how music-makers can build their brands! We cracked up laughing when Johnny shared the “you’re-not-gonna-believe-this” story about his cat, Adonis; you’ll discover up-close what Johnny’s favorite tattoo is and the story behind it, AND I ask the million-dollar question that Johnny didn’t see coming.
Tune in and thanks for watching LIFE AMPLIFIED!
ABOUT THE SHOW: Welcome to LIFE AMPLIFIED! The show where life, living, and live music take center stage! I'm your host, Joyce—artist, entertainer, entrepreneur, and the personality bringing you backstage access to the stories you’ve never heard. Here, we dive deep into the raw, real, and sometimes wild experiences of life - both in and out of the spotlight.
From epic moments on stage, to the challenges behind the scenes, my guests and I get personal about overcoming struggles, chasing dreams, and living authentically. You’ll hear untold tales, heartfelt conversations, get expert advice PLUS catch jaw-dropping performances from artists you’ll adore! So, whether you’re here for the music, the pro tips, or just love a good story, sit back and enjoy the ride because THIS is LIFE - AMPLIFIED!
FOLLOW on FACEBOOK | @JoyceBehindTheMic
In the JBTM Studio: Johnny Talley Texas Musician/Performer/Singer/Songwriter Instagram @Johnnytalleymusic
Facebook @JohnnyTalley
Featured Original Song: “One of Those Nights” by Johnny Talley, 2024

Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
🚀 Mini-Trailer | Joyce Behind The Mic™ Podcast - Where LIFE + LIVING + LIVE MUSIC take center stage!
#joycebehindthemic #podcast #interview

Thursday Mar 20, 2025
EP 01: JOYCE BEHIND THE MIC™ - Johnny Talley Music
Thursday Mar 20, 2025
Thursday Mar 20, 2025
Watch this episode to learn about the many hats that Johnny Talley wears! He’s a seasoned guitarist from Texas who’s performed with and alongside the awarded Texas-based country bands, Whiskey Meyers and Flatland Calvary. He released his newest single One of Those Nights in October 2024 and he’s performing it LIVE during this episode! By day, he’s a flight paramedic and - as if that wasn't impressive enough - he’s also a student of psychology!
During his recent interview Johnny shared one of his amazing secret talents with me (literally), we discussed Johnny’s professional journey in the music biz – he even shares his success-proven PRO-TIPS with the audience offering valuable insight on how music-makers can build their brands!
We cracked up laughing when Johnny shared the “you’re-not-gonna-believe-this” story about his cat, Adonis; you’ll discover up-close what Johnny’s favorite tattoo is and the story behind it, AND I ask the million-dollar question that Johnny didn’t see coming.