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Exploring the Energy with Anzo & Friends

Andy Staib

Welcome to Exploring the Energy with Anzo & Friends, a series of conversations with host and lifelong music lover, Andy "Anzo" Staib, and his friends and family.  Together, they explore the common threads that bond them all together - namely their shared love of music, family, friends, life, loss, and love. The show was born from the notion that music helps keep us all connected throughout our collective long strange trip.  We all have a story to tell, and here are a few of those stories.  So join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us!  #IFE #NFA

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  • 20 episodes
  • Avg 1 hr 4 min
  • English

Episodes 20

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  • S5 · E19
    August 13 · 54 min

    Greetings from The Greek with Paul “Pablo” Bauer & Rachel Whitley & Co

    What a treat gathering this tribe to celebrate Jerry Garcia’s birthday at the iconic Greek Theater in Berkeley, California with Dark Star Orchestra. And gathering this tribe was no small feat, with my guests and I representing California, South Carolina, New York, and Hawaii, all under one roof (and later in one very cramped Uber)! The episode is recorded in two segments. First, with fellow Canterbury Saint, Paul “Pablo” Bauer and his better half, Rachel “Rāche” Whitley, our host & fellow Saint, Hollister “Paco” Keville, and my concert wingwoman and oldest daughter, Hannah Staib. Pablo and Rachel lead the conversation out of the gate with their thoughts on our collective early days “getting on the bus” in the mid-80’s. Decades later, they met and discover their mutual love of The Grateful Dead and ultimately their love for each other, realizing that they were, in fact, true soulmates. We wrap up the “first set” of the interview by recapping a few highlights from Night 1 at The Greek, and we round out the episode en route to Night 2 with cameo appearances by Cary Platkin, Jad (not-to-be-confused-with “Jed”) Dunning, and Hannah Staib and a few predictions for the show to come. It was quite a ride, in more ways than one! Join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! Franklins Tower https://music.apple.com/us/album/franklins-tower-live/291317313?i=291317359 Fire on the Mountain https://music.apple.com/us/album/fire-on-the-mountain-live/291317313?i=291317362 Call Me the Breeze https://music.apple.com/us/album/call-me-the-breeze/672720304?i=672720451 Cold Rain & Snow https://music.apple.com/us/album/cold-rain-and-snow-live-at-fenway-park-boston-ma-6-25-23/1724866648?i=1724866652 Scarlet Begonias https://music.apple.com/us/album/scarlet-begonias-live-at-barton-hall-cornell-university/1204914175?i=1204914243 That’s it for the Other One https://music.apple.com/us/album/thats-it-for-the-other-one-cryptical-envelopment/1374273019?i=1374273412 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E18
    July 9 · 1 hr 4 min

    Team McAuley with Sean, Tim, and Alec "Big Al" McAuley

    What an honor to have the McAuley patriarch Alec "Big Al" McAuley and his two sons, Sean & Tim, in the studio for a trip down memory lane about music, sports and sports legends, and most of all, about love & family. The spotlight was on Big Al by design, and he did not disappoint. He brings us back to his life growing up the eldest of 10 children, playing high school basketball with Lew Alcindor (aka Kareem Abdul-Jabbar), and his connection with the one-and-only Henry "Hank" Aaron. He tells the story of baby Sean arriving four weeks early and how he and the love of his life, Jane, delivered Sean in their apartment with the help of their Italian landlady. “Here a-comes-tha-baby!” Fast forward to present day, Big Al and Jane just celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary only a few short weeks ago. Congratulations you two lovebirds! Sean and Tim take us back to their glory days on and off the football and baseball fields at Cornell Big Red in the late '80's. The McAuley brothers each share their perspectives on why music matters, and why it matters so much to the entire McAuley family. Join us, and let's see where the energy takes us! Swingtown music.apple.com/us/album/swingtown/1440842616?i=1440842907 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar youtube.com/shorts/xtXXTvmSHrQ?si=… Hank Aaron youtube.com/shorts/…?si=… Here We Go Again open.spotify.com/track/…?si=87cc639f14434732 Blackbird / Isabella McAuley (4 years old) Cotton Fields (Sean, Tim, Big Al, and yours truly) https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E17
    June 25 · 1 hr 11 min

    Back in the Studio - with Matt “Pooch” Kiernan & Friends

    After a brief hiatus, it's great to be back! I'm joined by my friend Matt “Pooch” Kiernan and his band of brothers - Bernie “Bonzo” Kiernan (his actual brother), Scott “Deece” DeSimone, and Gary “needs-a-nickname” Catania. Matt and I recently become fast friends through our mutual love of music, our love of our family, our passion for golf, and a new shared friendship with his brother and their two closest friends of over 50 years. I'm honored to call them all my friends now. Matt is my co-pilot in this interview and he helps us navigate our way through the late 70’s to the present with recollections of having to choose between disco and polyester suits, or rock n’ roll. Each of the guys have similar but unique perspectives on which music mattered, and why. Their tastes ultimately spanning the likes of U2, The Clash, Matchbox Twenty, and…. wait for it….. Twisted Sister. We close with tributes to those we lost along the way, and we pay tribute to their legacy and to the love they still bless us all with today. Join us, and let's see where the energy takes us! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E16
    March 12 · 52 min

    Grateful Fred's Visionary & Founder – Stephen McMennamy

    This one-on-one conversation was a while in the making, and so well worth the wait. Being a longtime customer of Grateful Fred and a fellow Deadhead, I’m honored to have hosted the founder of what I consider to be one of the premier Grateful Dead product producers in the country, Grateful Fred, Stephen McMennamy - https://grateful-fred.com/collections/badges The episode is in no way intended to be an “infomercial” for either Grateful Fred or the podcast (I invited Stephen to be my guest, no strings attached), but more so it’s my way of sharing the story of a true entrepreneur, his love for the Grateful Dead, and how his passion to fuel his creative energy has reached new heights that he never dreamed possible. Last but not least…. who is Fred anyway? Tune in. You won’t be disappointed :) Join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! Grateful Fred St Stephen 4.27.71 Tweezer 2.28.02 Wondering https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E15
    February 26 · 1 hr 16 min

    Reconnecting with John “Spiff” Macario

    My friend, John Macario, returns to the show and we pick up right where we left off back in late 2024 when he first shared his amazing story. It’s been 19 months since John lost the love of his life and fellow Deadhead, Meg, at age 52 to complications following a liver transplant. We catch up on how he and their 12-year old daughter, Gloria, are doing facing the world together as the dynamic duo. John shares how single parenting is going, and how every now and again he gets out to fuel his soul with live music, including the likes of Bulgarina-American pianist, Kristina Marinova. Marinova’s recent solo release, The Bus Came By and I Got On, is unlike any Grateful Dead music that I have ever heard before and is a must-listen. In honor of our beloved Bobby “Ace” Weir, John insists that we tune into NPR’s Tiny Desk with Bob Weir & Wold Brothers, where Mikaela Davis sits in on harp. Their rendition of Birdsong is simply magical and instantly transports the listener with its first few notes. We wrap up with John’s story of Gloria’s early love of Jerry Garcia, and how at just 5 years old she became attached to Jerry Garcia Band’s 1980 rendition of After Midnight. “More Jerry, Dad!” How cool is THAT, I mean really. Finally, John reveals for the first time how he got the nickname I never knew even existed - “Spiff”! Join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! Morning Dew / Kristina Marinova Smells Like Teen Spirit / Nirvana Please Don't Bury Me / John Prine Birdsong / Wolf Bros I Know You Rider / Grateful Dead After Midnight / JGB https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E14
    February 5 · 1 hr 14 min

    ACE - A Tribute to Bob Weir, Part II with Ted “The” Bahr & Paul “Nud” Schmitz

    In Part II of the continuing celebration of Bobby Weir and his life well-lived, I’m joined by lifelong Deadheads, Ted “The” Bahr and Paul “Nud” Schmitz. Nud kicks off the conversation by sharing his thoughts on Bobby’s one-of-a-kind “rhythmic-lead” style, and how this unique approach to the guitar was unlike any rhythm guitarist. We walk through the early days in the mid-60’s when, as Nud puts it, Bobby “couldn’t play very well, and couldn’t sing very well either” through his mastery of the axe by the early and mid-70’s. Ted brings his Top 20 Bobby Songs to the table for discussion and debate (similar to a recent “spirited conversation” that I had on The Great Debate episode The Great Debate ) acknowledging that some songs on the list aren’t technically Bobby songs at all. Being a self-described “picky Deadhead”, he’s unafraid to admit which songs he’s heard enough of and which Bobby songs still give him joy with each listen today. Join us once again, as we celebrate the well-lived life of Bobby “Ace” Weir, and let’s see where the energy takes us! Bobby Easy Wind Passenger Brother Esau Feel Like a Stranger The Other One https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E13
    January 29 · 1 hr 7 min

    ACE - A Tribute to Bob Weir, Part I with Tim McGuire & Kevin Campion

    Bobby Weir - October 16th, 1947 - January 10th, 2026 This one hurts, and feels very much like the closing of a chapter. Yet at the same time, we CELEBRATE. We celebrate the amazing life of founding member of the Grateful Dead, Bobby Weir, and we kick off with two lifelong Deadheads - both previous podcast guests - Tim “Tmac” McGuire and Kevin “Camp” Campion. Tim leads the way, recalling his early days admiring Bobby’s peaceful energy, his kindness, and lightly poking fun at his Daisy Duke short shorts, purple Polo’s, ponytail, tennis sneakers, and half-calf socks. We talk about how we tend to learn more about those we love after we lose them. And Tmac reminds us of the “SAY YES, DON’T WAIT” motto that he and I live by, and why that mindset matters. In the second half of the episode, Kevin, brings us back to how Bobby tackled Bob Dylan songs without missing a word, yet would somehow forget a lyric in staples like Truckin’, and he reminds us of Bobby’s philanthropy, his humility, and his spirit. Join us, as we celebrate the life of Bobby “Ace” Weir, and let’s see where the energy takes us! Hell in a Bucket 09.12.87 Cap Center Hell in a Bucket reprise 09.12.87 Cap Center Sugar Mags 03.21.86 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E12
    Dec 25, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min

    Get Busy Living. Get Busy Giving. with Erik “The Swede” Larson

    As much as unexpected and tragic loss tests the human spirit, sometimes it can become the catalyst for good. And that is exactly the mission that my friend, Erik Larson, has embraced after suddenly losing his best friend, Greg Kline, in August of 2020. Greg had a motto that he lived by, Get Busy Living, and Erik embodies all that is about getting busy living. But now, he’s also embodying getting busy GIVING. Erik Larson, who many refer to as “The Swede” because of his Scandinavian good looks and impeccibly styled blond hair, decided he had a story to tell. A story of his three nephews, who become wildly successful in the business of crypto currency, but the oldest brother, Billy, isn’t satisfied with materialism and modern “things of this world” and decides to travel the world in search of his true purpose in life. Ultimately he discovers that purpose in a life devoted exclusively to God. And in one of the most remote areas of the world no less - Mt Athos, Greece - where orthodox Christian monks have been serving God for over a thousand years. This otherworldly devotion requires the avoidance of “distractions” such as money, women, and even family. The Swede shares how Billy, now known as Brother William, embraces his new reality, all the while his brothers, his mother, and his girlfriend know nothing about his whereabouts or the new life he now lives. They become determined to find Billy and to “save him” from a life that has every sign of being a cult. Based on a true story, Cold Storage includes it all. Wealth, family, mystery, love, faith, and in the end, peace. Erik wrote Cold Storage, available in print and soon in audio, to support his new Get Busy Giving nonprofit foundation. As quoted on his website www.getbusygiving.net, Get Busy Giving is inspired by: “...seeing what real generosity looks like. Our town has rallied around families in need, supported local causes, and lifted people up in ways that pushed us to do something of our own. So we built Get Busy Giving, a nonprofit run by six grateful friends who want to turn inspiration into action. Our mission is to support causes that matter, build connections, and encourage others to step up for their neighbors. Greg Kline’s saying, “Get Busy Living,” reminds us to live with purpose and heart. Get Busy Giving is our way of carrying that spirit forward. All proceeds from Cold Storage and related merchandise go directly to Paws of War, supporting the life-changing bond between rescued dogs and those who serve in the military and first responders.” The 6 grateful friends referenced above include Greg & Melissa Kline’s three children - Tommy, Mikey, and Gracie - and Erik & Meredith Larson’s three children - Anna, James, and Jack. Together they comprise Get Busy Giving’s board of directors. And to steal one more line from Erik’s website: "So shines a good deed in a weary world." -Willy Wonka So join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! www.getbusygiving.net getbusygiving@getbusygiving.net https://open.spotify.com/playlist/75EQYtN4axmGWGIpK0iA6p?si=HwSv9dsdRb2YC8yWVyFIBA&pi=od6v0bOgSDOyZ https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E11
    Nov 27, 2025 · 1 hr 16 min

    The Gray Club Chronicles with Rich Gray

    Huntington, Long Island - home to so many of the amazing people that I am lucky to call my friends and family - continues to create new bonds and new friendships. In the true spirit of Thanksgiving, I could not be more grateful for those connections. Thanks to a few of those lifelong friends, I’ve been recently connected to a fellow Huntingtonian, a fellow music-lover, fellow golfer, fellow genuinely happily married man and fellow father-of-three daughters. A friend that truly gets what it means to Get Busy Living. I’m proud and fortunate to call my guest, Rich Gray, a new friend and I’m excited to share our conversation. Our conversation covers ground dating back to the early ‘80’s in New York City when Rich was Lead DJ “spinning records” at the successor dance club to Studio 54, Danceteria, where he helped fuel the shift from disco to more alternative dance music. As fate would have it, Rich met a woman at Danceteria who would ultimately turn out to become “the future Mrs. Gray”, though if you ask Janet, aka Mrs Gray, there may be some debate as to when exactly their fate was sealed ;) Rich shares insights into music and a lot of bands that I have never heard before, which is one of the things I love most about Exploring the Energy, namely getting enlightened to new and wider horizons of music. In the words of our beloved Billy Campion… “Hey man, there’s a lot of music out there.” So join us, and let's see where the energy takes us! Cotton Fields / Credence Clearwater Revival https://music.apple.com/us/album/cotton-fields/1440950503?i=1440950717 Don't Go Back to Rockville / R.E.M. https://music.apple.com/us/album/dont-go-back-to-rockville/1442454230?i=1442454641 Cousin Dupree / Steely Dan https://music.apple.com/us/album/cousin-dupree/297597608?i=297597647 Roadhouse Blue / Doors https://music.apple.com/us/album/roadhouse-blues/511578072?i=511578100 Saint of Circumstance / Grateful Dead https://music.apple.com/us/album/saint-of-circumstance/663697282?i=663697477 You're the Best Thing / Style Council https://music.apple.com/us/album/youre-the-best-thing-12-inch-version/1851028801?i=1851029447 Christmas Must Be Tonight / Goose https://music.apple.com/us/album/christmas-must-be-tonight-live/1667827844?i=1667828935 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E10
    Nov 6, 2025 · 1 hr 15 min

    The Great Debate with The Boys From Bergen

    In somewhat of an unconventional "studio" setting - namely a gutted former restaurant under renovation and equipped with only a table, a few folding chairs, a cooler of beer and an extension cord - 6 fellow music lovers travelled from across the Eastern Seaboard to Downtown Huntington to discuss and debate a subject that has been the hot topic among the group for over 6 years. "What are the Top-5 greatest American rock-&-roll bands of all time." Key word - American. No Stones. No Beatles. No U2. No Led Zeppelin (#sorrymeyers). The criteria as to what makes a band authentically American was that every band member, without exception, must have been born in the United States. No Metallica (#sorryhanna). After the rules of engagement were spelled out, the conversation that ensued over the next 50+ minutes was as spirited and riveting as any I've hosted in any prior episode. Enjoy the energy that flowed amongst my co-host, Rob "Monkey Man" Diestel, and his "Boys from Bergen" - Nick Halaby, Lewis Meyers, and Matt Hanna. Special cameo appearance at the end by our sound engineer, none other than founding member and frontman of Huntington's own Bogmen, Billy Campion. Thanks again for herding us cats and taking such good care of us, Billy! So join us, and let's see where the energy takes us! Midnight Flyer / Eagles https://music.apple.com/us/album/midnight-flyer/635765828?i=635765933 The Boys of Summer / Don Henley https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-boys-of-summer-remastered-2024/1761230483?i=1761230752 Everyday People / Sly & the Family Stone https://music.apple.com/us/album/everyday-people/193125445?i=193126391 Truckin' / Grateful Dead https://music.apple.com/us/album/truckin-live/307793560?i=307793566 Kokomo / Beach Boys https://music.apple.com/us/album/kokomo/1617206809?i=1617208420 Don’t Believe the Hype / Public Enemy https://music.apple.com/us/album/dont-believe-the-hype/1440837788?i=1440837952 Crosseyed & Painless / Phish https://music.apple.com/us/album/crosseyed-and-painless/396463671?i=396463832 The Weight / Aretha https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-weight/934618187?i=934618225 Free Bird / Lynyrd Skynyrd https://music.apple.com/us/album/free-bird-live-at-the-fox-theater-1976/1413948379?i=1413948706 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E9
    Sep 25, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min

    Life Inside the Grateful Dead’s Inner Circle with Dennis McNally

    This one was a big deal for me. My guest, Dennis McNally, isn’t just a reknowned author, music historian, and publicist, he’s someone I’ve long considered somewhat of a “celebrity” in my world. From 1984 to 1995, Dennis was the Grateful Dead’s publicist and part of the band’s inner circle. He’s written five books, including the classic Long Strange Trip: The Inside History of the Grateful Dead, and his latest, The Last Great Dream - How Bohemians Became Hippies and Created the Sixties. He’s married to the love of his life, photographer and author Susana Millman, whose book Alive With the Dead - A Fly on the Wall with a Camera, is one of my favorites. What struck me most was Dennis’s insight into how the Dead operated behind the scenes. How the band members interacted, what touring was like, and what it was like to be at the center of all that energy for so many years. He was every bit as gracious, articulate, and engaging as I could have imagined and I’m honored to now call Dennis a friend. Speaking of friends, this episode was also a first for me. I was joined by my good friend Charlie French as co-host who added thoughtful color and questions that I wouldn’t have thought to ask! These days, Dennis lives in San Francisco with Susana and is still doing the work he loves - namely as the publicist for Little Feat. It’s an honor and a privilege to share our conversation. So join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! https://www.dennismcnally.com/ https://mamarazi.com/ Stir It Up https://youtu.be/XQxceOPnj9Q?si=i8Vu2Wh_UnpJ_6LX Death Don’t Have No Mercy https://youtu.be/wH8GUfK-MOM?si=frh9iuuf1bCDSuob Time Loves a Hero https://music.apple.com/us/album/time-loves-a-hero/471749182?i=471749184 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E8
    Sep 11, 2025 · 56 min

    50 Years of Love & Friendship with John “Dino” DeNatale

    My friendship with John “Dino” DeNatale began in kindergarten over 50 years ago in the early 1970’s in Huntington’s own Flower Hill School. In this episode, John and I look back on our five decades of connection, the memories that shaped us along the way, and the big-picture lessons that we’ve learned and carried forward to this day. At the heart of our conversation is a simple truth: LOVE is all that matters. But before we dive into the big picture, Dino covers a few of his wilder days in the 90’s on Wall Street and he shares his thoughts about our very two different career paths, and how our individual successes in business are a result of our common appreciation of people and of relationships. He shares a few of the details of the day he married the love of his life, Pam, and recalls what he kindly refers to as ‘the best, best-man speech ever.’ Dino reflects on how he tries to remind his kids, as Simon & Garfunkel say, “Slow down, you move too fast.” He quotes Bono and explains why Walk On hits the nail on the head. We celebrate half a century of friendship and reflect on what it means to stay grounded in love, and we explore how trusting that energy carries us through life. So join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! The End https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-end/1441164426?i=1441164602 New Shoes https://music.apple.com/us/album/new-shoes/213008576?i=213008991 59th Street Bridge https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-59th-street-bridge-song-feelin-groovy/1467438660?i=1467438682 Walk On https://music.apple.com/us/album/walk-on/1443100430?i=1443101089 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E7
    Aug 28, 2025 · 1 hr 20 min

    Shooting Star: A Tribute to Jonny Staib

    It’s a tall order to try to capture the true color and the complete character of my cousin, Jonny Staib, in one conversation. Which is why I chose to invite four guests on this episode of Exploring the Energy to help me paint the full picture of this amazing human being. I’m proud to introduce a select few of his closest friends and family - including brothers Timmy and Tommy Sheerin, my cousin Diana San Venero, and last but certainly not least, Steve “Sonny” Peer. Together we share our collective “Jonny Stories.” Timmy, Tommy, Diana, Steve, and I share the innocence of the early days, and some of the nine lives that Jonny had during his teens, his 20’s and his early 30’s. Then, after 35+ years of living life in the fast lane, Jonny turned his life around, he launched a successful business, married the love of his life, Su, and bought a home on the water. Then tragedy struck. At the age of just 43 years, Jonny was killed in what can only be described as a freak accident in April of 2002. This is a tribute to a man who seemingly had nine lives, but who didn’t have ten. The title of this episode is fitting, because that’s exactly what Jonny Staib was, and always will be, a true shooting star. So join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! Shooting Star https://music.apple.com/us/album/shooting-star/968637156?i=968637160 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E6
    Aug 13, 2025 · 42 min

    Saddle Up with Kim & Gregg Carlin

    What a treat hosting one of the best and most beautiful couples I know, Kim & Gregg Carlin. Kim, being a southern girl and all, kicks off our conversation by sharing her love of country music and explains why she gravitates to the likes of Chris Stapleton, Toby Keith, George Strait, and Willie Nelson. She comes clean explaining that she’ll be at Madison Square Garden the night after our interview with “another man” seeing the Chris Stapleton concert. No worries of a Coldplay Kiss Cam moment though, since that other man is actually her son, Hamilton ;) Then we shift over to Gregg’s muscial tastes, which tend to be in the ‘70’s genre. We touch on how Gregg and my wife, Margaret, could change the world if they teamed up on Name That Tune! He reveals his talent for impersonations, so keep an ear out for a cameo appearance by Christopher Walken. We relive our trip to Cabo with who we call The Cabo Crew and I share how that trip helped lighten my soul after having lost my father only a few weeks prior. Good friends, sunshine, tequila, and perhaps a taste of “chocolate” is all good healing medecine. We really had fun on this one! So join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! Coldplay Kiss Cam Couple https://youtube.com/shorts/xL8gdhw4q5I?si=d9iXky0ESpxwp9gd Howard Stern + Chris Stapleton interview https://youtu.be/e1DIJy7PjXU?si=hA4HJcCJaaRxYDct Starting Over / Chris Stapleton https://music.apple.com/us/album/starting-over/1528423147?i=1528423148 Next Episode / Dr Dre w/ Snoop https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-next-episode-feat-snoop-dogg/1440782221?i=1440783384 Christopher Walken Pulp Fiction audio clip https://youtu.be/YFtHjV4c4uw?si=cuMzYaKrlP-EnQtl Sugar Sugar https://music.apple.com/us/album/sugar-sugar-original-45-version/732889622?i=732889708 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E5
    Aug 7, 2025 · 53 min

    Trusting the Universe with Robyn Pray

    My relatively new friendship with Robyn Pray is undoubtedly a result of the universe connecting the two of us. Here’s how that happened and why this episode means so much to me. In the summer of 2023, I received a very kind and somewhat mysterious note from a name that I didn’t recognize, though I did recognize the sender’s address - Keeseville Free Library in Keeseville, New York. Admittedly not being an avid reader or library-goer, I thought to myself “who and why is anyone from any library reaching out to me?” Turns out, Robyn had been on a quest to find a copy of “Corlear Bay Club - The First 100 Years”, written by Luisa Fernholz. For context, Corlear Bay Club is the small private community located on the New York shores of Lake Champlain that my family has been coming to for 58 consecutive summers. In her Google search for Fernholtz’s book, she stumbled on my memoir, called The Perfect Club. And although she never did find a copy of the original book she was after, Robyn took interest in my memoir, she found my contact info, and politely asked if I’d be open to sharing a copy of my memoir, which of course I did. I was honored and somewhat disbelieving that anyone other than my immediate family and friends even knew about my little memoir project. It was then in the summer of 2024 that Robyn and I finally met in-person when I discovered that she was in fact, a DEADHEAD too. Robyn was even kind enough to invite me to host a book-talk at the library that summer, and the rest as they say, is history! Recently I sat down with Robyn at the library to share a few concert war stories and learn more about how and what lead her to become the director of the institution known as the Keeseville Free Library, now celebrating its 99th anniversary. Just a few short days after my interview with Robyn and in honor of the library’s anniversary, the Corlear Bay and Keeseville communities rallied together in our first-ever 5K Color Walk to support the KFL. BIG shoutout to Lilly Staib for being the brainchild behind the idea and to Robyn for pulling it all together. Our little walk raised over $1000! The theme that Robyn and I kept coming back to was how, despite the often-times sad or even tragic mysteries that surround us all in life, we continue to trust the universe. And Robyn has, what I can only describe as amazing “Universal Energy”. So join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! Library Magic https://music.apple.com/us/album/library-magic/1118453756?i=1118453892 Ramble on Rose https://music.apple.com/us/album/ramble-on-rose-live-at-jfk-stadium-philadelphia-pa/366394085?i=366394312 Gold Dust Woman https://youtu.be/4QiAmkF-QkE?si=LhnAzVQVO1_DMqWi Feelin' Alright https://music.apple.com/us/album/feelin-alright-feat-dave-mason-anders-osborne-live/1820042229?i=1820042465 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E4
    Jul 31, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min

    A Fireside Chat with Villanova Wildcat Peter Russell

    I was honored and proud to host yet another member of the Villanova Wildcat Crew, my friend Peter Russell. To say that Peter and I have a few things in common would be an understatement and it wouldn’t do our friendship justice. First and foremost, we both appreciate energy, and we embrace the people that exude positive energy, starting with two of the most beautiful souls in the universe, Rainer “TITAN” Jenss and Tom Staib. God rest both of their souls. Peter shares how he became a Wildcat and what those wild days in the mid-1980’s meant to him. You’ll hear Peter and I speak of characters like John Coates, Tim “Tmac” McGuire, Bill Schroeder, Andy Taccetta, Kevin Taylor, and “Miracle on the Hudson” survivor, Steve O’Brien. Then we shift to present day where Peter reveals what kind of music makes him truly feel alive, including Dave Matthews Band, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and Billie Eilish, to name a few. He reveals a band name that I had never heard before, Manchester Orchestra, and I’m so glad he did. Check these guys out, trust me. Peter opens up about why, after 30 years, he chose to leave the world of media and launch a self-funded video-based, online mentorship platform for young adults, called Kindling https://www.gokindling.com/ He describes how Kindling helps young adults cultivate personal agency, empowering them to thrive personally and professionally. Although the program is suited primarily for adults from 18-29, Kindling can be the spark for anyone that wants to foster change and self-improvement. Finally, Peter pays tribute to his family. Having recently lost his ultimate mentor, his father, Jack, he shares how and why Jack’s character has been a lifelong inspiration. Join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! Tight Pants SNL https://youtu.be/Nv7Ts4v5_Bs?si=1Lp1zqALTPrEj7Yo All Along the Watchtower https://youtu.be/QLvNVtTtqao?si=BtbIDTr_FxOMzFKC God Only Knows https://music.apple.com/us/album/god-only-knows/1440850596?i=1440852180 The Sunshine https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-sunshine/1440945297?i=1440945308 (edited) https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E3
    Jul 24, 2025 · 43 min

    Truckin’ to Charleston with Lilly Jo Staib

    Now in their 20’s and all having left the nest, it’s not often I get to spend extended one-on-one time with my daughters. This is why this episode is so special to me. A few weeks ago my youngest daughter, Lilly, and I embarked on a 12+ hour roadtrip from our home town of Greenlawn, Long Island to Charleston, South Carolina where Lilly will join her sister, Hannah, and call it home for a while. Along the way, Lilly shares what she’s been up to since graduating from University of Delaware in May of 2024 and reveals why she chose Charleston to explore the next chapter of her journey. We share stories, talk music, and even include some comic relief by recalling a few of our favorite Seinfeld moments. 768 miles later, we arrive in Charleston and are greeted with a big hug from Hannah and close out our roadtrip by catching some good ol’ Grateful Dead music at Pour House. It doesn't get any better than that!Join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! Truckin' https://music.apple.com/us/album/truckin/663694969?i=663694987 On The Road Again https://music.apple.com/us/album/on-the-road-again/418556875?i=418556999 Life in the Fast Lane https://music.apple.com/us/album/life-in-the-fast-lane/635770200?i=635770204 Althea https://music.apple.com/us/album/althea/663697282?i=663697474 Send Me On My Way https://music.apple.com/us/album/send-me-on-my-way/1440931328?i=1440931590 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E2
    Jul 17, 2025 · 1 hr

    Podcaster, Author, Entrepreneur, Music Lover, Family Man, Friend & Neighbor - Dan Pashman

    The title may be a bit of a giveaway, but unlike all previous episode show notes where I share a preview of the content, in this very special episode, I invite listeners to learn about my guest, Dan Pashman, by tuning in and finding out Dan’s amazing story for themselves. In other words, I’ll keep you in suspense! Join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! Anything’s Pastable https://www.sporkful.com/anythings-pastable/ The Sporkful https://www.sporkful.com/ Mission Impastable https://www.sporkful.com/tag/mission-impastable/ Born to Run https://youtu.be/_uh5jg1_tmA?si=DQpCGMNGAT7bcr1W https://music.apple.com/us/album/born-to-run/310730204?i=310730214 So Many Roads https://music.apple.com/us/album/so-many-roads-live-in-chicago-july-9-1995/307938974?i=307939172 Hello in There https://music.apple.com/us/album/hello-in-there/1018524551?i=1018524558 Crash into Me https://music.apple.com/us/album/crash-into-me/388136111?i=388136331 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S5 · E1
    Jul 10, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min

    Inaugural Episode, Live from U.S. Brews with Gunny & Nud & Company

    It was intentional and by design that the official rebrand of the podcast from Grateful Dad & Friends to Exploring the Energy w/ Anzo & Friends kicked off at a local, music-centric brewery, aptly named, U.S. Brews. What better place to explore the energy?! In the inaugural episode, I’m joined by U.S. Brews owner & founder, Brian “Gunny” McGunnigle and Paul “Nud” Schmitz, with special cameo appearances by Kevin “Camper” Campion, Billy “Vic Thrill” Campion, and Billy “Mad Larry” Ryan. We start by sharing the story behind the rebranding of the podcast and why I chose energy as the new theme and why “IFE” has become one of my mantras in life. Next, Nud takes us back to the early 1970’s when he discovered his love of music by catching the Allman Brothers in our hometown of Huntington and how that love evolved into him becoming a musician in his own right. He describes how he became part of Huntington’s own, Old #7 Band, along with “Hollywood Bob” Campion and how that friendship has lasted a lifetime. Then we let Gunny tell his story of how he gave up corporate America to follow his passion by opening up U.S. Brews Bottle Shop and how that leap of faith is fueling his soul. He opens up about the journey and the blood, sweat and tears that he’s put into making USB what it is today - a vibrant, family friendly, music-centric brewery that the community has come to call home. Finally, we share the mics with previous podcast guests Kevin Campion, Billy Ryan and Billy Campion so they can provide even more color behind the making of USB. Join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! U.S. Brews Bottle Shop & Kitchen https://usbrews.com/ Statesboro Blues https://music.apple.com/us/album/statesboro-blues-live-at-the-fillmore-east-first-show-1971/1440828148?i=1440828157 Suddenly https://music.apple.com/us/album/suddenly/286725737?i=286725771 Ripple w/ Sturgill Simpson https://youtu.be/p23bFRa0O0A?si=rGZxqWsT8P1wI3pS (edited) https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

  • S4 · E7
    May 22, 2025 · 1 hr 8 min

    Unpacking The Notes With Jason Darby

    I've known Jason Darby for over 45 years, and while we've long shared a deep bond through our love of family, golf & tennis, and music, I was still surprised by the depth of his knowledge when it comes to the guitar—and especially his passion for legendary players like Eddie Van Halen, Nuno Bettencourt, and Keith Richards, to name a few. Our conversation kicks off with a trip down memory lane, back to the late ’70s on the Bay Hills Beach tennis courts, where a young Jason was my tennis “pupil.” From there, we fast forward to discussing what makes these guitar icons so extraordinary. Jason shares his insights into their unique styles and explains why he's spent so much time studying their technique and artistry in his personal pursuit of mastering the axe. We also take time to talk about the greatest joys in his life: his wife of 25 years, Trish, and their three incredible kids — Kaleigh, Peyton, and Patrick. The Darby family's list of achievements is too long to cover in one episode, but I’d be remiss not to mention Trish’s legendary run at St. Bonaventure, where she set all-time soccer scoring records and became the first (and only) female soccer player inducted into the university's Hall of Fame. Sorry, Trish—I had to brag a little. :) Join us, and let’s see where the energy takes us! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1983015048745357

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