The Livewire with Branden Lee

Dustin Ybarra is a high-energy stand-up comedian and actor known for his quick wit, unpredictable punchlines, and wildly expressive stage presence. Seen on The Goldbergs, Gotham, Californication, and stages nationwide, Dustin’s storytelling blends sharp observational humor with a mischievous charm that instantly wins over audiences. Whether he’s riffing on everyday chaos or spinning absurd personal tales, he delivers big laughs wit...

Justin Malonson is the executive chef behind Sous Chef, Kilroy Public House, and the heart of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit To The Table, a charity dedicated to feeding families in Northwest Arkansas. Known for his passion, creativity, and generosity, Justin doesn’t just craft incredible dishes in the kitchen — he brings his culinary talent to the community every week, preparing meals for those in need. His mission goes beyond flavor; it...

In the latest episode of The Livewire with Branden, we talk with Tim Lopez of Plain White T’s fame as he opens up about his evolution as a musician, launching his solo project under the alias Timothy Howls, and the unexpected creative spark that followed years of chart-topping success. We get a great perspective from a singer-songwriter role, and dig into what drives his songwriting now—family life, artistic freedom, and the thrill...

Episode 17 of The Livewire with Branden, featuring the unstoppable force that is Chad Tepper. From the moment we started talking, Chad’s energy is contagious — pure motivation wrapped in rockstar attitude. In this episode, we dive into what drives him, how he keeps pushing forward, and the powerful mindset that turns dreams into reality. Whether you’re chasing music, passion, or purpose, Chad’s story will light that fire in you. Th...

On this episode of The Livewire, I’m joined by Dale Stewart, bassist for the multi-platinum rock band Seether. We talk about their upcoming show at the Walmart AMP, what makes live concerts such a powerful connection between band and fan, and the energy that keeps him doing it night after night. Dale also shares thoughts on the recent passing of Sam Rivers from Limp Bizkit, and the impact of losing a fellow musician from that era. ...

This week on Episode 15 of The Livewire, Branden Lee welcomes stand-up comedian Myles Weber, who’s bringing his quick wit and high-energy humor to The Comedy Zone at Walton Arts Center on October 23rd. Myles shares his journey from discovering his passion for comedy at a young age to building a career that’s as honest as it is hilarious. We talk about his comedic influences, his unique approach to storytelling, and what keeps him i...

This week on Episode 14 of The Livewire, Branden Lee chats with Vic Fuentes and Jaime Preciado of Pierce The Veil! Ahead of their highly anticipated show at the Walmart AMP, the guys share what fans can expect from this stop on their world tour. We talk about the excitement of bringing their new music to the stage, the magic of touring together as family, and how they keep the energy fresh and fun every night. Get ready for laughs,...

Episode 13 of THE LIVEWIRE with Branden Lee spotlights Laura Newell-Cortina, Music Programmer for The Momentary and Crystal Bridges, as she talks about her important role in finding and booking amazing talent to bring to Northwest Arkansas. Laura gives us the inside scoop on Momentous Festival, happening October 10th and 11th on the grounds of The Momentary, featuring dubstep icons Flux Pavilion and Doctor P b2b, live electronic st...

Episode 12 of THE LIVEWIRE with Branden Lee turns up the laughs with local stand-up favorite Raj Suresh. Raj shares what goes into creating his streaming special Sweep The Leg. As the co-creator of the upcoming Big Diamond Comedy Festival, running October 2nd–4th, Raj gives us a sneak peek into what fans can expect. Plus, this episode features clips from tons of comics performing at the festival, giving you a taste of the talent hi...

Episode 11 of THE LIVEWIRE with Branden Lee features an exclusive conversation with Jeremy McKinnon, lead singer of the powerhouse band A Day To Remember. Jeremy opens up about the band’s evolution from their early days to becoming a defining force in alternative rock and post-hardcore. He shares insights into songwriting, touring, and how he connects with fans worldwide. Branden and Jeremy also dive into what’s next for the band. ...

Episode 10 of THE LIVEWIRE with Branden Lee shines a spotlight on community impact. Every tenth episode features someone making a difference in Northwest Arkansas, and this time we welcome Nate Walls Jr. — the powerhouse behind Second Hand Smoke and SecondHelping.org. Nate shares his passion for giving back, feeding those in need, and building connections across the region. He also explores the fascinating similarities between musi...

Episode 9 of THE LIVEWIRE with Branden Lee features Jassen Evans, bass player from TV PREACHER, one of Northwest Arkansas’ top punk rock bands. Branden sits down with Jasson in the practice garage in Rogers as he dives into the roots of the band, their energy-packed shows, and why punk still thrives in the Ozarks. He shares his take on the local music scene, calling it one of the best it’s ever been, with incredible new talent risi...

Episode 8 of THE LIVEWIRE WITH BRANDEN LEE features an inspiring conversation with Anthony Ball — drummer for the high-energy band Funk Factory, Vice President of Music Depot in Downtown Rogers, and a powerful voice for community and culture in Northwest Arkansas. Anthony isn’t just a musician; he’s a family man, mentor, and activist who’s passionate about lifting others up. In this episode, he opens up about navigating the music s...

In this episode of THE LIVEWIRE WITH BRANDEN LEE, Branden sits down for a phone conversation with Art Alexakis, the legendary frontman of Everclear, just before the band’s performance at Ozark Music Hall in Fayetteville. Art opens up about life offstage, sharing heartfelt thoughts on fatherhood, the evolution of his songwriting, and what continues to fuel his passion for music after decades in the industry. The two also dive into d...

Episode 6 – “Count Cards” of THE LIVEWIRE WITH BRANDEN sits down with the punk rock band Counting Cards in their home studio for a conversation that hits hard with heart. We dive into the band’s fresh energy in the punk scene, their creative process. Lead singer Justin opens up about the balance between being an inspired, motivated musician and being a dad, especially with their newest single, ARIA, named after his baby girl. This ...

Episode 5 of THE LIVEWIRE WITH BRANDEN takes us to The Source Dispensary in Rogers for an inspiring conversation with the vibrant Rochelle Bradshaw. We dive into her upcoming album, ISLAND GIRL, dropping August 15th—recorded in her family’s Jamaican studio, filled with love, roots, and rhythm. Rochelle shares her creative process, the magic of making music in her homeland, and her role as a brand ambassador for The Source. We also ...

In the fourth episode of THE LIVEWIRE WITH BRANDEN, Branden sits down with longtime friend and local music legend Benjamin Del Shreve for a heartfelt and nostalgic conversation. Together, they dive into stories from unforgettable concerts that once rocked Northwest Arkansas. They also look ahead to a special reunion show coming up at George’s Majestic Lounge, promising to bring fans back to that golden era. Beyond the music, the tw...

In episode three of THE LIVEWIRE with Branden, we dive into the creative minds of Eddie Love, his wife Caitlin Love, and Groovement drummer Bryan Burkhart. Recorded inside Bryan’s Sound Source Studios, Branden explores Eddie’s rise in the local art scene through his bold and popular paintings, and unveils the story behind his electrifying new supergroup, FULLY MAMMOTH. With Caitlin’s insight and Bryan’s musical energy, this episode...

In Episode 2 of THE LIVEWIRE WITH BRANDEN, we dive into the mind of Brandon D. Adkins—Branden sits down with Frontman of The Plaid Jackets in downtown Springdale at 'Yankabilly's Smokehouse'—as he talks with us about his launch of a bold new solo album. Branden and Brandon catch up on their shared past, reflecting on the early days of promoting his band and the wild ride since. The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as they discus...