Steamboat Locals

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK - Lindsay Lou | WinterWonderGrass Series

In this special edition of Steamboat Sound Check, part of our WinterWonderGrass Series, we sit down with the incomparable Lindsay Lou—a vocalist, songwriter, and storyteller whose music blurs the lines between folk, soul, bluegrass, and blues. Known for her unmistakable voice—one that glides effortlessly between ethereal beauty and raw, unfiltered emotion—Lindsay has carved out a unique space in the Americana and progressive roots world.
Born and raised in Michigan, Lindsay’s musical journey was shaped by her deep connection to family, nature, and the rich traditions of roots music. Her sound, while rooted in bluegrass and folk, has evolved into something entirely her own—melding heartfelt lyricism with powerful, soul-stirring performances. Whether fronting Lindsay Lou & The Flatbellys, collaborating with artists like Billy Strings, The Infamous Stringdusters, or The California Honeydrops, or stepping into the spotlight at WinterWonderGrass, she brings an undeniable presence to every stage she graces.
But this conversation isn’t just about music—it’s about transformation, community, and new beginnings. Lindsay recently announced that she and fellow musician Kyle Tuttle are expecting a baby boy in May, a milestone that is already shaping her perspective on songwriting, performance, and life itself. She opens up about how this shift is influencing her creativity and the unexpected ways motherhood is already intertwined with her music.
One of the first projects born from this new chapter is “Bart’s Diaper Club”, a beautifully intimate collection of lullabies recorded at home as part of a ‘community baby shower.’ Fans can contribute toward diapers, and in return, receive an album of these tender, stripped-down songs. We dive into the incredible outpouring of support she’s received, reflecting on how the folk and bluegrass community has always felt like an extended family.
And speaking of family, no conversation with Lindsay would be complete without discussing WinterWonderGrass—a festival that has become a home away from home for her. Over the years, she’s been an integral part of its spirit, performing across its many incarnations, from Colorado to Baja to River WonderGrass. She shares what this festival and its tight-knit artist community have meant to her, how those spontaneous, magical on-stage collaborations come together, and what it’s like to step into the unknown—sometimes quite literally, with a lyric sheet handed to her just before going on stage!
This year, she returns to WinterWonderGrass as a Special Guest, hopping between sets and lending her voice to various performances, including potential collaborations with The Brothers Comatose and The California Honeydrops—two bands she’s recently worked with on new songs. We even get some behind-the-scenes insight into whether we might hear the never-before-performed live track “Fall in Love Again” during the festival.
Finally, we explore the ever-growing phenomenon of WinterWonderWoman, a showcase that celebrates the incredible women in a traditionally male-dominated genre. Lindsay reflects on how the divine feminine influences her artistry, the power of creating space for women on stage, and how the WinterWonderGrass audience has embraced this movement year after year.
This is more than just an interview—it’s a deep dive into a moment of transformation for Lindsay Lou, a celebration of music as community, and a glimpse into the heart of one of WinterWonderGrass’s most cherished artists. Whether you’ve followed her journey for years or are just discovering her music, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired, connected, and ready for the magic of WinterWonderGrass.
🎧 Tune in and get ready to experience the soulful brilliance of Lindsay Lou.

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK - Kris Lager Band

Steamboat Sound Check: Kris Lager Band – Presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry
As part of our continued effort to highlight musicians playing at Schmiggity's, we dive deep into the mind and music of Kris Lager, a road warrior and soulful powerhouse who has spent over two decades bringing his unique blend of blues, rock, funk, and roots music to audiences across the country. More than just a musician, Kris is a storyteller, a seeker, and a firm believer in the healing power of music. His "Celebrate Life" mantra isn't just a slogan—it’s a way of being, woven into every note he plays and every crowd he uplifts.
We explore his journey from picking up a guitar at 13 after being inspired by 90s MTV to developing his signature sound that blends raw blues authenticity with groove-driven rock and roll. Kris shares what it means to play 125+ shows a year, and the lessons he’s learned from years on the road. He also reflects on the moments that shaped him, and how music continues to be his vehicle for joy, connection, and self-discovery.
Don’t miss Kris Lager Band live at Schmiggity’s on February 26, 2025! And here’s a bonus—download the Steamboat Locals app and show it at the venue for one free well drink at the show.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation and get ready for an unforgettable night of music and good vibes!

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK - California Honeydrops | WinterWonderGrass Series

Presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry
In this special WinterWonderGrass Series episode of Steamboat Sound Check, we sit down with Ben Malament, founding member and percussionist of The California Honeydrops—a band that has spent nearly two decades redefining live music experiences with their infectious energy, genre-blending sound, and deep connection to their audience.
Born from the streets of the Bay Area, The California Honeydrops have never lost touch with their busking roots. Whether playing subway stations in their early days or setting up an impromptu post-show jam on a street corner—like they did after their unforgettable Dillon Amphitheater performance—their dedication to keeping music spontaneous and personal remains at the heart of what they do. Their signature mix of soul, jazz, R&B, blues, and New Orleans-style funk has endeared them to fans worldwide, and nowhere more so than in Colorado, where they’re a staple at legendary venues like the Mishawaka Amphitheatre and sell out shows year after year.
In our conversation, Ben takes us behind the scenes of the band’s fearless, no-setlist approach to live performances, sharing how they decide what to play in the moment and why keeping things unpredictable is key to their magic. We also dive into their latest album, Keep On Diggin’, exploring how they continue to evolve their sound while staying true to their roots. Plus, we talk about their incredible collaboration with Lindsay Lou on the song “Fall in Love Again”—and whether we might see that performed live at WinterWonderGrass this weekend.
WinterWonderGrass is often thought of as a bluegrass festival, but as The California Honeydrops prove, it’s really about celebrating musicians who know how to bring joy, energy, and authenticity to the stage. With their genre-bending sound and undeniable chemistry, they fit right in. Tune in as we chat with Ben about what makes their Colorado shows so special, their journey as a band, and what they’re most excited for at this year’s WinterWonderGrass Festival!

Steamboat Comedy Ep. 133 Restaurant Shenanigans

In this new episode of the Steamboat Comedy Podcast, Matt and Kyle talk all things restaurants, including a story of Kyle's confrontation with a Russian chicken tender thief. Topics also include hot takes on the OJ Simpson trial, Matt's attempt to help with a sunscreen situation, plus more sentences that have never been said.

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK - Kyle Hollingsworth | WinterWonderGrass Series

In this episode of the Steamboat Sound Check podcast, presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry, we sit down with Kyle Hollingsworth, the dynamic keyboardist renowned for his work with The String Cheese Incident and his own Kyle Hollingsworth Band. With a career spanning nearly three decades, Kyle has been instrumental in blending genres from rock to classical, creating a unique sound that's captivated audiences worldwide.
Kyle shares insights from his early days, discussing how his initial passion for acting transitioned into a profound love for music, leading him to study jazz piano in college. He reflects on the serendipitous journey that brought him to Colorado, where an invitation to join The String Cheese Incident set the stage for a flourishing career.
As the conversation unfolds, Kyle reminisces about memorable performances in Steamboat Springs, including the legendary Independence Incidents in the early 2000s. He offers a glimpse into his upcoming shows: an intimate performance at Schmiggity's on February 22, 2025, and a special appearance with Pickin' On The Dead at WinterWonderGrass from February 28 to March 2, 2025. Kyle delves into the nuances of performing in cozy venues versus large festivals and shares his approach to interpreting Grateful Dead classics through a bluegrass lens.
Beyond the stage, Kyle's enthusiasm for craft beer shines through. He discusses his collaboration with Ska Brewing on the Grapefruit Modus IPA, highlighting his appreciation for the vibrant craft beer scenes he encounters on tour.
Join us for an engaging conversation that traverses Kyle Hollingsworth's artistic evolution, his deep-rooted connection to Colorado's music scene, and his multifaceted passions that continue to inspire fans both on and off the stage.

Common Folk in the Boat (Ep. 21 Ray Heid)

In this episode of the Common Folk in the Boat podcast, presented by Billo Premium Cannabis, we had the distinct honor of sitting down with Ray Heid, a fourth-generation native of Steamboat Springs and a true local legend. Born in 1937, Ray's life is a tapestry woven with rich experiences in skiing, ranching, and community involvement.
About Ray Heid:
Ray's early years were spent in Steamboat Springs, where his father owned the Boys' Market grocery store near Oak and 9th. Despite growing up in town, Ray was deeply drawn to the ranching lifestyle from a young age. He began skiing at the age of three and competed in junior nationals from 1951 to 1955. In 1960, he served as an alternate for the U.S. Olympic Ski Jumping Team at Squaw Valley. His passion for skiing led him to become the head ski coach at the University of Wyoming from 1962 to 1965. Later, he assisted the Mescalero Apache Tribe in developing the Sierra Blanca ski area near Ruidoso, New Mexico. Eventually, Ray returned to Steamboat Springs to manage Del's Triangle 3 Ranch, a family-owned operation offering horseback rides and pack trips in the Routt National Forest.
Join us as Ray shares captivating stories from his life, a life that embodies the spirit and history of Steamboat Springs.

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK - Trampled by Turtles | WinterWonderGrass Series

In this special WinterWonderGrass Series episode of the Steamboat Sound Check podcast, presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry, we sit down with Dave Carroll—better known as Banjo Dave—from the legendary bluegrass-meets-folk-rock outfit, Trampled By Turtles.
Formed in Duluth, Minnesota, over 20 years ago, Trampled By Turtles has built a dedicated following with their raw energy, intricate instrumentation, and heartfelt songwriting. Though they are deeply rooted in their home state, their music resonates strongly with Colorado audiences, making them one of the more highly anticipated acts to hit this year's WinterWonderGrass stage.
Dave opens up about his personal connection to Steamboat Springs, having lived here for a stint, and weighs in on the infamous Yampa Valley Curse. We talk about the band’s unconventional path to bluegrass, how their punk and rock backgrounds helped shape their sound, and the challenges of maintaining balance in a relentless touring lifestyle. He also sheds light on Trampled By Turtles’ 2024 EP Always Here, as well as their recently released beautiful cover of Bon Iver’s For Emma, recorded in collaboration with Sumbuck, and how they approached reinterpreting a song that holds deep meaning in the indie-folk world.
With WinterWonderGrass around the corner, Dave reflects on what makes the festival so special and what he’s looking forward to most when returning to Steamboat. If you're a fan of Trampled By Turtles or just love hearing stories about the magic of Colorado’s mountain lifestyle and music scene, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

STEAMBOAT COMEDY - Ep. 132 Gladiator 2

In this episode Kyle and Matt talk about how Gladiator 2 sucked and no one should watch it. Just don't. Topics also include interesting thought experiments on genitals, the great debate of whether Dinosaurs had feathers, and Kyle's public flashing.
 
Please be aware that this podcast contains explicit material and is not recommended for listeners under the age of 16.

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK | moe.

In the latest episode of the Steamboat Sound Check podcast, presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry, we had the pleasure of talking with Al Schnier, guitarist and vocalist for the renowned jam band moe., ahead of their upcoming performance at Strings Music Pavilion on February 13th.
Formed in 1990 at the University at Buffalo, moe. has become a cornerstone of the jam band scene, known for their eclectic blend of rock, blues, jazz, and psychedelia. Their current lineup features Rob Derhak (bass, vocals), Chuck Garvey (guitar, vocals), Al Schnier (guitar, vocals), Jim Loughlin (percussion, vibraphone), Vinnie Amico (drums), and their newest addition, Nate Wilson (keys). Over the past three decades, moe. has built a dedicated fan base through extensive touring and their signature improvisational live performances.
Podcast Highlights
🎸 Al’s Journey with moe. – Al shared how he first discovered moe.’s music and the surreal experience of eventually joining the band in 1992, a move that would define his career.
🎶 New Album: Circle of Giants – Released on January 31, 2025, this is moe.’s 14th studio album. Al gave us a behind-the-scenes look at how the record encapsulates the band’s 35-year journey and their ongoing evolution.
🎵 The Story Behind "Ups and Downs" – We explored the origins of the band's latest single, which reflects the band's collective challenges.
⏳ Embracing Extended Tracks – In an era where shorter songs dominate, moe. continues to craft expansive, long-form musical explorations. Al discussed why the band remains committed to this approach and what it means to their artistry.
🎹 Welcoming Keyboardist Nate Wilson – With Nate Wilson joining the band in 2023, Al talked about the fresh collaborative energy and how Wilson’s keys have expanded their sound.
🧠 Supporting Mental Health with Backline – Al emphasized moe.'s commitment to mental health advocacy, continuing their tradition of donating $1 from every ticket to Backline, an organization supporting mental health resources for musicians and their families.
🏟️ Intimate Venues vs. Festivals – We discussed how playing at massive festivals differs from intimate venues like Strings Music Pavilion, and how these settings influence their setlists and performance energy.
⛷️ Balancing Music & Skiing – A passionate skier and part-time ski patroller, Al shared his excitement about visiting Steamboat and hitting the slopes while on tour.
This episode offers a deep dive into Al Schnier’s personal journey, the evolution of moe., and the band’s enduring legacy.
🎟️ Don’t miss moe.’s show at the Strings Music Pavilion on February 13th!

ELEVATING STEAMBOAT - Ep. 3 SSWSC

In the latest episode of the Elevating Steamboat podcast presented by The Carpet Shoppe, Gardner Flanigan sits down with Brian Krill, the Executive Director of the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (SSWSC). Brian brings nearly three decades of experience in education and the nonprofit sector, with a rich history in competitive mountain sports. Before joining SSWSC, he served as the Executive Director for the Sugar Bowl Ski Team and Academy in California and the Jackson Hole Ski and Snowboard Club. He also held roles with the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association, contributing significantly to club development and sport education.
In our conversation, Brian shares insights into his background and his vision for the future of SSWSC. He emphasizes the club's unlimited potential and its commitment to fostering athletic excellence while preserving the unique community spirit of Steamboat Springs. Brian discusses upcoming initiatives aimed at enhancing athlete development and expanding community engagement, reflecting his dedication to both the sport and the local community.
We also delve into the upcoming 112th Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival, scheduled for February 5-9, 2025. Hosted by SSWSC, this annual celebration embraces Steamboat's western heritage and highlights its tradition of winter sports. This year's theme, "Let Your Light Shine," encourages participants to celebrate their unique contributions to the community. The carnival features a variety of events, including the iconic Street Events where children on skis and snowboards are pulled behind horses along snow-covered Lincoln Avenue, and the Night Extravaganza at Howelsen Hill, showcasing local athletes performing illuminated stunts, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.
Join us as we explore Brian's journey, his aspirations for SSWSC, and the exciting events planned for this year's Winter Carnival. Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the area, this episode offers a deeper understanding of the people and traditions that make Steamboat Springs a special place.