Episodes

  • Tribute Band Sessions with Mike Gendler: Behind the Scenes

    Tribute Band Sessions with Mike Gendler: Behind the Scenes
    Feb 3 2026
    In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson welcomes Mike Gendler to discuss the world of tribute bands, podcasting, and their shared love for Bruce Springsteen. Mike, a lifelong musician and entrepreneur, shares his journey from playing the piano and drums in his Philadelphia home to founding a successful entertainment company and starting the Tribute Band Sessions podcast. Learn about Mike's unique experiences, such as playing at a private party for Pink Floyd and the nuances of recreating the authentic sounds of iconic bands. They also delve into why tribute bands have gained popularity and the importance of both musical fidelity and live performance energy. Tune in for engaging stories and insightful discussions on the art of tribute bands. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:39 Mike's Musical Journey 02:49 Early Career Highlights 04:18 Family Influence and Musical Inspirations 08:48 Tribute Bands and Podcasting 09:31 The Business of Tribute Bands 19:03 Surprising Moments and Celebrity Encounters 22:00 The Passion of Rock Stars 23:07 The Popularity of Tribute Bands 24:32 Setting Up the Perfect Set List 28:10 Mimicking the Original Band 33:17 Bruce Springsteen Stories 39:31 Final Thoughts and The Mary Question Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    48 mins
  • In the Name of Bruce: Voices From the Streets

    In the Name of Bruce: Voices From the Streets
    Feb 3 2026
    🚨 Dive into the musical genius of Bruce Springsteen with Lou, Karen and I as we break down Springsteen's impactful new single, "Streets of Minneapolis." Tune in and join the conversation! #SetLustingBruce #Podcast #BruceSpringsteen #jklpodcast #NOICE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    28 mins
  • When Springsteen Speaks We Should Listen - thoughts on the City of Minneapolis

    When Springsteen Speaks We Should Listen - thoughts on the City of Minneapolis
    Jan 30 2026
    In a surprise release on social media, Bruce Springsteen dropped a powerful new song, 'Streets of Minneapolis,' addressing systemic injustices and calling out the misuse of power by federal agencies. Without the usual fanfare of a major artist release, Springsteen's direct and unapologetic ballad highlights the names of those who died on Minneapolis streets and critiques the current behavior of enforcement agencies like ICE. The song serves as both a reminder and a warning that silence in the face of injustice is complicity, urging all to raise their voices against systemic inequities and abuse of power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    6 mins
  • Jackson Reed Returns: New Music, Opening for Nazareth, and Stories from the Road

    Jackson Reed Returns: New Music, Opening for Nazareth, and Stories from the Road
    Jan 28 2026
    Join host Jesse Jackson in this exciting episode of 'Set Lusting Bruce' as he welcomes back returning guest Jackson Reed. Jackson, a musician and podcaster from Calgary, Canada, discusses his band's new EP 'Live in 25,' their thrilling experience opening for Nazareth, and the band's musical journey. Jackson also shares insights into his influences, recording process, and promotion strategies, along with a sneak peek into his podcast 'Guess That Record' featuring music industry big names. Don't miss the exclusive behind-the-scenes stories and upcoming plans for Jackson Reed and the Silverbird. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:22 Guest Introduction: Jackson Reed 01:18 Musical Journey and Band Formation 02:15 New EP: Live in 25 03:42 The Big Break: Opening for Nazareth 09:07 EP Track Breakdown 15:16 Podcast Highlights and Future Plans 15:22 Bruce Springsteen Experiences 22:59 Final Thoughts and Promotions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    32 mins
  • "Family Tunes with The Boss: A Father-Daughter Discussion"

    "Family Tunes with The Boss: A Father-Daughter Discussion"
    Jan 26 2026
    This episode of the podcast featuring father-daughter duo Rick and Alex. They discuss their deep connection to Bruce Springsteen's music, memorable concerts, and how Springsteen's lyrics have impacted their lives. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on fandom, family, and the enduring legacy of The Boss. Special shoutouts to incredible supporters who keep the show rolling are also included. 01:32 Introducing the Guests: Alex and Rick 03:44 Rick's Journey to Becoming a Bruce Fan 07:37 Alex's Connection to Bruce's Music 09:46 Father-Daughter Concert Experience 13:30 Thoughts on the Recent Bruce Springsteen Movie 21:11 Discussing the Lost Albums and Nebraska Set 27:57 Broadway and the Power of Storytelling 28:53 Songs That Comfort and Inspire 30:55 Memorable Live Performances 33:32 Songs We Wish to Hear Live 36:28 Unexpected Encounters with Bruce 43:05 The Thunder Road Question 45:32 Final Thoughts and Reflections 49:58 Outro and Housekeeping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    56 mins
  • Behind the Lens: Celebrities, Photography, and Paparazzi Insights with Nadja Sayej

    Behind the Lens: Celebrities, Photography, and Paparazzi Insights with Nadja Sayej
    Jan 20 2026
    In this engaging episode, host Jesse Jackson interviews entertainment journalist, photographer, and podcast host Nadja Sayej. The conversation covers Nadja's journey from Toronto to New York and Berlin, her experiences as a paparazzi photographer, the evolution of celebrity culture, and the art of interviewing celebrities. Nadja shares touching stories, insightful advice, and her passion for photography and podcasts. They also discuss the challenges and rewards of the freelance journalism industry, the significance of red carpets, and the dynamics of celebrity interactions. Don't miss this deep dive into the world of entertainment from a unique perspective! https://www.instagram.com/nadjasayej?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:27 Guest Introduction: Nadja's Journey 01:34 Growing Up and Musical Influences 07:32 Discovering Photography and Journalism 09:02 Life in Berlin and Celebrity Encounters 15:50 Transition to Paparazzi and Red Carpet Experiences 21:19 Memorable Celebrity Interactions 23:53 Celebrity Encounters and Memorable Moments 25:37 The Art of Photography and Editing 27:44 The Evolution of the Red Carpet 28:35 Rejections and Resilience in the Industry 30:01 Unique Interview Experiences 34:07 Transitioning to Podcasting 40:02 Future Projects and Creative Aspirations 42:07 Advice for Aspiring Creators 48:59 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    55 mins
  • Exploring Bruce Springsteen's 'Jungleland' and More with Ken Womack

    Exploring Bruce Springsteen's 'Jungleland' and More with Ken Womack
    Jan 13 2026
    In this episode of the Set Lusting Bruce podcast, host Jesse Jackson welcomes back one of his favorite guests, Ken Womack, an English professor and popular music expert from Monmouth University. They dive into a discussion on Bruce Springsteen's iconic song 'Jungleland,' its musical and lyrical depth, and why it stands out as one of Springsteen's most significant works. Womack also shares his experiences with the Born to Run Symposium and other Springsteen-related events he has helped organize. The conversation touches upon recent Springsteen tours, upcoming music projects, and the impressive Monmouth University music program. Join them for an insightful and heartfelt conversation about 'The Boss' and the lasting impact of his music. 01:32 Introducing the Guest: Ken Womack 02:28 Reflecting on the Born to Run Symposium 04:31 Ken Womack's Background and Connection to Springsteen 05:05 Discussing the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music 06:45 The Unique University Record Label 08:34 Thoughts on the Bruce Springsteen Movie 13:33 Analyzing the Song 'Jungleland' 24:01 The Energy of Live Performances 24:59 Iconic Imagery and American Wasteland 26:21 The Specialness of 'Born to Run' 28:38 Festival Experiences and Preferences 34:29 Anticipating Bruce's Future Projects 37:16 Upcoming Personal Projects 39:48 Final Thoughts and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    45 mins
  • Catching Up with Tammy Collier - From Jersey to Denver and Bruce Springsteen Adventures

    Catching Up with Tammy Collier - From Jersey to Denver and Bruce Springsteen Adventures
    Jan 6 2026
    Jesse Jackson welcomes back fan-favorite guest Tammy Collier. The episode is a delightful catch-up session. Tammy shares her significant life changes, including moving from Jersey to Denver, and reminisces about her Bruce Springsteen fandom journey since discovering him during the 'Born in the USA' tour. The duo delves deep into memorable concerts, especially the standout 'See Here Now' event. Tammy also shares her experiences of near-misses with Bruce in Jersey, her thoughts on recent Springsteen releases, and both discuss the impact of the 'Deliver Me From Nowhere' film. Ending with a hopeful note for 2026, they touch on broad personal reflections and mutual support in both Springsteen fandom and life. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:21 Catching Up with Tammy Collier 01:16 Tammy's Journey and Bruce Springsteen Fandom 03:08 The See Here Now Festival Experience 06:16 Memorable Moments and Highlights 08:15 Reflections on Bruce's Impact 10:55 The Born to Run Symposium 13:33 Thoughts on the Box Set and Movie 22:00 Looking Ahead to Bruce's Future Plans 22:58 Upcoming Album and Tour Speculations 23:29 Dream Concert Venues and Experiences 24:03 Red Rocks Venue Insights 24:49 Tramps Like Us: A Personal Experience 25:24 Born to Run Symposium and Premier Invitation 26:22 Spring Nuts and Serendipitous Meetings 27:11 Film Reflections and Audience Impact 31:12 Movie Watching Habits and Industry Changes 34:30 Near Misses with Bruce Springsteen 40:02 Final Thoughts and Political Reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    49 mins