Franklin's Garage to Stage

A backyard barbecue, a long orange extension cord, and a beat-up VHS of Woodstock. That’s how Andrew Verkamp accidentally started a movement in a tiny Indiana town, one that grew into Kayana Woodstock—a decades-long tradition that packed hundreds into his yard, then graduated to the Lincoln Amphitheater with live bands, giant screens, and a stubborn commitment to peace and love. We sit down with Andrew to unpack the true story behi...

We sit down with Divine Martyr to trace their path from early singles to a focused full-length, and dig into how DIY recording, better live systems, and a democratic culture keep a symphonic metal band moving forward. From lineup changes to onstage save-the-show moments, the band shares practical lessons for musicians at any level.

• origin of Divine Martyr and Indianapolis roots
• lineup evolution and Cassandra steppi...

A canceled gig can feel like a punch to the gut—especially when fans already have tickets. We dig into why that happens today, tracing the math venues use to keep doors open and why pre-sales have become the deciding factor for grassroots rooms across the UK. With Daz at the wheel—literally and figuratively—we explore what it takes to run three bands in one night, keep a van rolling for four-hour drives, and still deliver a tight s...

We sit down with Bruce Franklin of Trouble to trace a 40-year path from garages and Chicago clubs to international festivals, digging into tone, songwriting, and the business choices that shape longevity. He opens up about gear, Rubin-era lessons, the new record, and why Europe still shows up for heavy music.

• Trouble’s origins and early influences
• Building a signature tone with Marshall and Clone Theory
• Metal...

Great tone shouldn’t be a luxury purchase, and Tom Miles is here to prove it. We invited the creator behind Tom’s Pedal Demos to talk about the sounds, strategies, and small choices that help players build inspiring rigs for a fraction of boutique prices. Tom lays out his clear budget tiers, explains why “less talk, more pedal” is his guiding motto, and shows how context—pickups, guitars, and amps—matters more than brand hype when ...

"The two most important days of your life is when you're born and the day you discover why." Mark Twain's profound words resonate deeply with musicians who can pinpoint the exact moment music became their life's purpose. After a three-month hiatus following co-host Rob's life-threatening medical emergency, Franklin's Garage to Stage returns with heart and metal spirit intact.

Rob's h...

Michael Carpenter, owner of Rooster Bar in Gastonia, North Carolina, shares his journey from music fan to venue owner and his philosophy on creating opportunities for musicians. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at how venues select artists, emphasizing the importance of social media presence and self-promotion for booking success.

• Rooster Bar hosts diverse music styles including heavy metal, hip-hop, country, singer-so...

Jay Ball shares the story behind his metal project Gospels of Odin, a creative outlet that evolved into a powerful father-son collaboration when his 15-year-old son Levi revealed unexpected vocal talents. The project has gathered nearly 9,000 streams in just four weeks since release, demonstrating how digital platforms have revolutionized music distribution.

• Founded Gospels of Odin about 18 months ago after 40 years in t...

When four musicians with a shared passion for grunge and heavy guitar-driven rock come together, something electric happens. That's exactly what we discovered when UK band Ego Trip joined us on Franklin's Garage to Stage podcast.

Beginning at a brewery open mic night when guitarist Bean and vocalist Will decided they needed a band name rather than having their individual names written on the board, Ego Trip has e...

Rob and Dana Franklin welcome Daz from the UK-based Motorhead tribute band Loser to discuss his unique approach to tribute performances and supporting the local music scene.

• Loser is a relatively new Motorhead tribute band that tours across England, Wales, and Scotland playing mid-sized venues
• Rather than just performing Motorhead covers, Daz creates full evenings of entertainment with a comedian and original bands...

Rob and Dana Franklin share their 30+ year journey as musicians in hard rock, metal, and blues, offering insights from both sides of the podcast mic. The brothers discuss their musical beginnings, touring experiences, and how they've maintained their passion while navigating the industry's challenges.

• Rob was inspired to become a drummer after seeing a live performance at his aunt's wedding
• Dana foll...

Martin Motnik shares his remarkable journey from practice sessions in his parents' basement to becoming the bassist for legendary metal band Accept, with over 1,000 recording credits to his name.

• Journey from bedroom practice to professional touring musician
• Auditioning for Accept and the importance of personal chemistry with bandmates
• Bass technique adaptations for playing aggressive metal music
• ...

Connor Small, also known as Quiet Son, shares his journey as a Los Angeles-based producer and mix/mastering engineer for both Grass-Fed Music and independent artists worldwide.

• Originally from Philadelphia, Connor discovered his passion for music early, banging on pots and pans as a child
• Gained initial studio experience through high school recording programs and internships
• Approaches production as a collabo...

Rob and Dana explore the magical moment when musicians stop playing notes and start feeling the music, sharing their recent band practice experience where everything finally clicked. They discuss how finding the right bandmates creates chemistry that transforms practices from work to pure enjoyment.

• Update on their new project and recent lineup changes
• Reflections on interviews with Robin Brumfield and Nile Atway f...

Nael Atweh, founder of Grass-Fed Music, shares his journey and insights on artist management, the evolving music landscape, and the essential qualities for new artists. He emphasizes building trust, maintaining authenticity, and utilizing social media effectively to grow an audience.

• Nael's inspiring story from Toronto to success in the music industry 
• Importance of a strong online following for artists 
•...

Robin Brumfield, an up-and-coming musician from Los Angeles, discusses his journey and influences in the music industry, highlighting his dual role as an artist and producer. He emphasizes the importance of emotional connection through performance, networking, and the creative process behind producing music for others. 

• Discusses the emotional impact of live performances 
• Shares insights on navigating the LA music ...

The episode reflects on key insights from previous discussions, emphasizing the importance of rehearsal spaces, auditioning musicians, and band dynamics. Rob and Dana explore the significance of image in music versus musicianship, encouraging aspiring musicians to engage with their passion genuinely. 
• Recap of previous guest insights 
• Importance of secure rehearsal environments 
• Strategies for successful auditions...

Remember the rush of your first live performance? Join us as we revisit that exhilarating moment with our brother and fellow musician, John Franklin, sharing our early gigs at places like Duke's Wild Goose Bar in Reno. Get ready to uncover the secrets of live music success, from negotiating set times and mastering sound checks to the art of written contracts that keep your band protected. Aspiring musicians won't want to ...