The Popko Project is a podcast providing a platform for discussion and discovery of arts and entertainment featuring interviews with artists like Breaking Benjamin, The Verve Pipe, Everclear, COLD, Tigers Jaw, Bowling for Soup and more!
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Krista Berardelli Shares the Story Behind Rock to Remember | The Popko Project Podcast Episode 271 Some stories deserve to be told because they have the power to inspire others. This conversation with Krista Berardelli is one of those stories. On Episode 271 of The Popko Project Podcast, Krista opens up about the life and legacy of her father, Tony Berardelli, whose decades-long battle with brain tumors inspired the creation of Rock to Remember, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting brain cancer research while investing in the next generation of musicians. Krista shares the emotional journey of
In Episode 270 of The Popko Project Podcast, we sit down with Matt and Stephen from Philadelphia pop-punk band Dead Wrong to discuss their debut full-length album, The Extent, their upcoming album release show, and the journey that brought the band together. The conversation dives into the band's origins, songwriting process, musical influences, and the emotional stories behind tracks like “Summer Runaways,” “Happy Birthday,” and “Every Season.” Matt and Stephen also reflect on the state of modern music, the importance of full-length albums in the streaming era, the return of vinyl, and how ba
On this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, we sit down with Derrick Ryan, the creative force behind Minute After Midnight, to talk about his journey from skate parks and local hardcore shows in Tennessee to signing with Fearless Records and building one of rock's most promising emerging projects. Derrick shares the story behind the band's unique name, reflects on the long road to success, and opens up about the breakout single "Ghost," which recently surpassed 11 million streams on Spotify. The conversation explores the realities of being a modern independent artist, the role social media p
In Episode 268 of The Popko Project Podcast, I sit down with rising alt-rock band American Vanity to talk about their explosive growth on social media, the evolution from Burn the Jukebox into American Vanity, their upcoming album, touring life, music influences, and what it really takes to break through in today’s music scene. The band opens up about building a massive online following, handling internet criticism, writing authentic music, and why they’re “here for the love of the game.” We also dive into the current state of rock music, physical media making a comeback, AI in music and conte
On this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, we sit down with post-hardcore veterans A Static Lullaby for an in-depth conversation about their long-awaited return, revisiting their classic album ...And Don’t Forget to Breathe, and reconnecting with the music that helped define an era of emo and post-hardcore music. The band reflects on their rise during the early 2000s post-hardcore explosion, sharing stories from the road with bands like Finch, Hawthorne Heights, Brand New, and My Chemical Romance. They discuss signing to Columbia Records, the pressures of the music industry, lineup changes,
In this episode of the Popko Project Podcast, the spotlight is on Baltimore pop punk band AITA (stylized A.I.T.A.), a fast-rising group blending emotional honesty, explosive energy, and modern pop punk attitude. The band joins the show to talk about their unique origin story, how they chose their name, the realities of being independent musicians in today’s music industry, and the creative process behind their debut album Promises and latest singles like “No Hard Feelings,” “Brand New To You,” and “Miss The Mark.” Throughout the conversation, AITA opens up about the challenges of balancing mus
In Episode 265, Popko sits down with musician, producer, and former Citizen King member Kristian Riley for a deep dive into a career that spans from ‘90s radio fame to today’s ever-evolving music landscape. Kristian reflects on his time in Citizen King, the band behind the hit “Better Days (And the Bottom Drops Out)” sharing stories from major label bidding wars, life on tour, and the reality of navigating sudden success—and what happens after it fades. He opens up about the pressures that led to the band’s early end, and how that experience shaped his path forward. From there, the conversatio
Episode 264 of The Popko Project Podcast features S8NT ELEKTRIC 🔥 LA-based pop-metal band S8NT ELEKTRIC joins the show to talk about their explosive new album Off The Edge, the journey behind the band, and what it really means to live life without limits. From meeting online and building a band from scratch… to creating a full-on movement centered around pushing boundaries, facing fears, and chasing purpose—this episode dives deep into the mindset, hustle, and creativity driving one of the most exciting rising acts out right now. We get into: 🎤 The origin story of S8NT ELEKTRIC ⚡ The meaning
In this episode, rising Revival Rock artist Chris Greiner joins The Popko Project Podcast to talk about his music, faith, and the story behind “All Will Be Well.” Chris Greiner is a 20-year-old singer-songwriter out of Bucks County, PA, who’s carving out his own lane with what he calls “Revival Rock”—a blend of country, southern rock, and gospel-rooted storytelling. We get into how a chance Instagram connection turned into this conversation, the story behind his standout track “All Will Be Well,” and how faith, struggle, and real-life experiences shape his music. Chris opens up about the ups a
In this episode, Popko sits down with Logan from Scarlett O’Hara for a high-energy, no-BS conversation about music, identity, and staying real in today’s scene. The Texas-based metalcore band isn’t holding anything back — and neither is this interview. They get into the band’s evolution, creative mindset, and what it takes to stand out while staying authentic. It’s raw, honest, and exactly the kind of conversation that makes The Popko Project what it is. 🎧 Watch / Listen to Episode 262: 👉 https://youtu.be/KJtxdxFEW5M 🎙️ Check out more episodes of The Popko Project Podcast: 👉 https://thepop
Episode 261 of The Popko Project Podcast features a powerful and nostalgic conversation with Aaron Fink (former guitarist of Breaking Benjamin) and Baxter Teal (of Deepfield), as they discuss the highly anticipated live event “We Are Not Alone.” On March 7th at Front Street Station in Northumberland, PA, Fink reunites with original Breaking Benjamin members Jeremy Hummel and Mark Klepaski to perform music from the band’s first two iconic albums, Saturate and We Are Not Alone, in full. With Baxter Teal stepping in on vocals, this sold-out show celebrates the raw energy, musicianship, and nostal
Episode 260 of The Popko Project Podcast features an in-depth conversation with Crispin Earl of The Veer Union. From major label success to taking control of their masters, The Veer Union have navigated the ever-changing music industry with resilience, strategy, and relentless work ethic. In this episode, Crispin opens up about the band’s evolution, surviving the collapse of the traditional record label system, and how streaming platforms like Spotify have reshaped the game for modern rock artists. We dive into: The Veer Union’s early breakthrough and major label experienceBuying back their ma
Ep. 259 – Geena Russo: From Tattoos to Tailgates – Building NEPA’s Wildest Country Music Festival In Episode 259 of The Popko Project Podcast, I sit down with Geena Russo, founder of the River Wave Country Music Festival and co-owner of the beloved 570 Tattooing Company. This episode dives deep into how Geena took her passion for music, love for community, and DIY spirit to create one of NEPA’s fastest-growing country music festivals—held at the nostalgic Moonlite Drive-In in Wyoming, PA. Geena opens up about everything from her roots in the tattoo industry to the challenges of organizing a tw
On Episode 257 of The Popko Project Podcast, I’m joined by Tysoul for a conversation that’s equal parts real talk and creative fuel. We get into the moments that shaped him, what drives his sound, and how he balances passion with the pressure to keep leveling up. We dig into the creative process, the influences that built the foundation, and what it takes to stay locked in when nobody’s watching. Tysoul also shares what he’s working on now, what he wants listeners to feel when they press play, and what’s coming next. If you’re into artist stories, behind-the-scenes insight, and the mindset it
Episode 256 – In A Perfect Sky | The Popko Project Podcast 🎙️ In this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, Popko is joined by Gerry from In A Perfect Sky, an emerging acoustic/emo/indie duo from Northeastern Pennsylvania. They dive deep into the band’s beginnings, Gerry’s transition from bassist to frontman, and the creation of their heartfelt new EP, Maybe Someday I’ll Let Go. 🎧 Listen now on your favorite platform: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube 🎵 What We Talk About: The formation and evolution of In A Perfect SkyGerry’s leap into being a frontmanThe emotional depth of Maybe Someday
About This Episode In this episode, Popko sits down with Ray Meoni and Kyle Johnson to talk about Scranton Skalidays 2025, happening December 20th at The Ritz Theater in downtown Scranton. Skalidays has become a Northeast PA holiday tradition — a massive celebration of ska, punk, and community. Now in its fourth year, Skalidays continues to grow, bringing together bands and fans from across the region. Ray and Kyle dive into how the event has evolved from a 60-cap room to one of Scranton’s biggest DIY festivals, plus the challenges and rewards of keeping local punk culture alive. What You’ll H
Guest: Nick Summons, Founder of Dunder Mixin Entertainment Podcast: The Popko Project Podcast Presented by: Keller’s Garden Center & Landscaping Services • Ionic Development • The V-Spot Bar • Scotch Sauce Hot Sauce — Makers of Happy Boy Hot Sauce. 🔥 Get 15% off with code POPKO at scotchsaucehotsauce.com About This Episode In this episode, Popko sits down with Nick Summons of Dunder Mixin, one of NEPA’s most exciting new entertainment brands. Nick shares how a chance “Dunder Mifflin” moment inspired the name, how he built his company from scratch, and how Dunder Mixin is bringing new energy a
Welcome to Episode 253 of The Popko Project Podcast, featuring a powerful conversation with Olivia Elizabeth Basar — a rising NEPA artist sharing her creative journey, musical influences, and what drives her to keep making honest, heartfelt music. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering Olivia for the first time, this episode dives into the stories behind the songs, the challenges of carving out a path as an independent artist, and the realities of the local music scene in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Listen to Episode 253 You can stream this episode on your favorite platform: Listen o
🎧 Episode 252 – Cowgirl Pills In this episode of The Popko Project, I’m joined by Dylan and Eilish—better known as Cowgirl Pills, the rising DJ duo who’ve taken NEPA by storm. We chat about their whirlwind journey from bedroom DJs to booking 75+ gigs in less than a year, including clubs, weddings, First Friday events, and even the Steamtown Music Awards—where they won Best New Artist 🏆. We dive into: -The unexpected origin of the name “Cowgirl Pills” (hint: autocorrect was involved) -How a Fallout Boy concert and a beginner controller launched their DJ career -Building a full-time entertainm
🎙️ Episode 251 - Aaron Zona for Mayor of Factoryville The Popko Project gets political! In a special civic edition of The Popko Project Podcast, Popko sits down with Aaron Zona, a longtime community member, small business owner, and now mayoral candidate for Factoryville, PA. Known for his 16+ years at the helm of Sick Boy Tattoo Studio and his leadership in local youth athletics, Aaron opens up about what inspired his leap into public service, how he plans to bring fresh energy to Factoryville, and what a thriving small town should look like in 2025 and beyond. From community-driven revitali
In this special 250th episode of The Popko Project Podcast, singer-songwriter Dave Hause joins us for a deeply honest and wide-ranging conversation about life, creativity, family, and punk rock. From his early days with The Loved Ones to the raw energy of his latest album And The Mermaid, Dave opens up about making music with his full band for the first time, parenting twins, and how punk continues to inspire him in chaotic times. We talk about his powerful new songs like “Look Alive” and “Enough Hope,” the impact of billionaires in politics, the balance of touring and fatherhood, and the magi
In this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, we sit down with multi-talented artist, producer, and studio owner Patrick Motto for an in-depth, honest, and heartfelt conversation. From opening for Breaking Benjamin the night they were signed, to launching his own recording facility, PM Soundscape Studios, Patrick shares his two-decade journey in music — from fronting bands like One Man Religion to creating introspective solo albums like Flood. We dive into topics like creative burnout, faith, the toxicity of social media, vocal identity, and the ever-changing landscape of music production. Pat
From playing guitar in his kitchen to hearing his first song on the radio 📻 — John Bower's journey into music is as real and down-to-earth as it gets. In this episode, we talk about: - How a random invite led to his first live gig - His debut song “LE Around OV” — and what the title really means - Recording music for the first time - Balancing music, family, and serving as a volunteer firefighter - Picks in the Park — a benefit show in Nicholson, PA you don't want to miss feat. John Bower, Amy Lee Hubbard, Shane Fabiani, Mike Elward, Jimmy Stranger, Jase Matthews Band, Megaband, & Mace In Dic
In this episode, Popko sits down with Joe Caviston, the driving force behind the Electric City Music Conference and the Steamtown Music Awards, now entering their 12th year. Joe reflects on the journey from humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of the Scranton music scene, and why this massive effort is his way of giving back to the community that raised him. We dive into: -Why the conference is about more than just the music -What it takes to stay relevant in a DIY music world -The critical role of education, networking, and mentorship -New venues, fresh talent, and the return of Emo Ni
