Through grief comes purpose. When Kaden Collins lost his grandmother to cancer on Valentine’s Day 2020, he transformed his pain into something powerful – a platform where independent musicians could share their stories and build community. “We can’t get anywhere without each other,” Collins explains, his passion for connection evident throughout our conversation.
The journey from “The Spokane Man” to “The KGC Show” reveals how one question can redirect a creative path. When producer Jeff Panzer asked, “Why are you making a name for your city when you could be making a name for yourself?” Collins discovered his true direction. This moment of mentorship highlights the power of surrounding yourself with people who see your potential clearly.
Jay shares his own backstage story of spending Thanksgiving at Alison Krauss’s house, sparking a discussion about her return to touring with Union Station after 14 years. The conversation flows naturally into venue preferences, with Tiffany favoring intimate settings for acoustic performances while Jay appreciates larger arenas for rock shows. Kaden’s perspective as both a podcast host and music fan adds depth to this exploration of how setting shapes musical experience.
Our interactive segment on songs featuring girls’ names brings out nostalgic favorites from “Beth” to “Sweet Caroline,” demonstrating how music weaves through our personal histories. When Tiffany mentions not knowing Kiss’s “Beth,” Jay’s playful “You’re fired!” becomes the running joke of the evening, creating those authentic moments of friendship that make podcast conversations feel like sitting with old friends.
Beyond music, we delve into what holds value in our lives – literal and figurative. While Tiffany sees no appeal in expensive designer handbags, Jay admits his appreciation for quality bags and accessories. Kaden’s passion for vinyl records and good food reveals how our spending habits reflect our deeper values. The conversation reminds us that quality matters most in the things we truly care about, whether that’s music, relationships, or the creative work we put into the world.
Join us for this heartfelt exploration of music, memory, and meaning with Kaden Collins. Connect with us at jayfranze.com and discover how your own stories might find their perfect soundtrack.
Links
- Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
- Virtually You: https://www.virtuallyyouva.com/