From Akron & Beyond Podcast

What is the greatest year in Rock history? Many would argue for 1966 (for one: Robyn Hitchcock). In this first of of a two- parter, we have a look back and ponder the evidence….

In this episode, we go way beyond, to Hawaii, Britain, Europe, and Akron!  Our guests, Long Tall Deb and Colin John, join Nick and Bob to talk about their adventures playing the Blues to audiences around the globe.Deb’s powerful, soulful vocals, combined with Colin’s virtuoso guitar, combine for some of the best Blues - and best stories - around!

In this episode, Nick and Bob have a look back at the legendary Cleveland TV horror film host Ernie Anderson - i.e., Ghoulardi!  The show, which ran from 1963 to 1966, had an incalculable effect on young Northeast Ohio viewers, many of whom would grow up to make music, make movies, make art…. The crazy influence of Ghoulardi lives on! And who better to discuss him with than longtime TV critic Rich Heldenfels, who literally, with Tom Feran, wrote the book on Anderson! Listen as we delve deep into what made Ghoulardi, and the legacy he left.

What if - instead of The Beatles - the Velvet Underground had been the most commercially and societally successful band in history?This is the provocative and hilarious premise of the new book by Chuck Klosterman, entitled ROCK* A MAINSTREAM ALTERNATIVE HISTORY OF ALTERNATIVE MAINSTREAM MUSIC.In this episode, we speak with the bestselling author about his work and successful career, which really took off when he was a columnist for the Akron Beacon Journal.  While in Akron, Chuck wrote the books Fargo Rock City and Sex, Drugs, and Cocoa Puffs, which led to stints at Spin, Esquire, and the New York Times - and eleven more bestselling books.This is a fun episode! Listen Thursday, September 17, at 10 pm on The Summit FM, 91.3, or later anytime, wherever you get your podcasts!

We are excited to have as our return guest graphic novelist Derf Backderf, whose new book THE DISSIDENTS is receiving rave reviews internationally.The book is a deep dive into a lost history of censorship, intimidation, and outright violence directed towards anyone criticizing the U.S. government during the World War 1 era.  The art is superb, the narrative compelling - and the ramifications all too relevant today.Derf’s previous books include MY FRIEND DAHMER, TRASHED, and KENT STATE. With THE DISSIDENTS, he may have created his masterpiece.Listen Thursday, September 10th. at 10 pm, on The Summit FM, 91.3, or anytime wherever you get your podcasts!

If you live in the area around Akron, you’re aware of our wonderful National Park - and it’s likely you know about the Scenic Railroad…. But, on this episode, Nick and Bob find that there’s a whole lot to learn about this historic and fun railway!Were visited by Lynee Bixler from the CVSR, who shares the interesting history of the railroad, its routes and activities, and how it’s maintained. Lots of interesting information, and definitely will inspire you to book a ride!

In this episode, Nick and Bob are visited by screenwriter/producer Carl Kurlander - and a film crew!In Akron filming a road trip documentary about unique jukeboxes, the screenwriter of the hit film ST. ELMO’S FIRE, and producer of the popular TV series SAVED BY THE BELL, stops by with lots of funny and fascinating stories.  With tales of Hollywood, and many travels and adventures, don’t miss this one!

 
“Craig Bell”In this episode, Nick and Bob visit with Craig Bell.  Craig is a true musical legend, having been a member of Rocket From the Tombs, the ur-punk band from Cleveland that ultimately spawned Pere Ubu and the Dead Boys. He’s co-writer of the classic song “Final Solution”, amongst other anthems, and has continued making music with a variety of great bands. Craig has great stories, and a lot of great music. Listen Thursday, June 25 at 10 pm on The Summit FM, 91.3 - or later any time, wherever you get your podcasts!
 

In this special episode, we preview the new documentary about 15-60-75 (The Numbers Band) with filmmaker Jason Prufer.  Over a decade in the making, this film promises to be the definitive portrait of one of the most original and dynamic musical forces ever to come from our region - or any region, for that matter. We are also joined by Robert Kidney, who shares his take on the film.Director Prufer integrates interviews, rare photos, and exhilarating live performances for a film experience you won’t want to miss!“Out of Oblivion, Into Obscurity” will premiere at the Cedar Lee Theatre in Cleveland Heights on Saturday, June 6th, 2026.

Join us tonight, Thursday. March 26 at 10 pm. as we celebrate the classic collection of 1960’s mayhem NUGGETS! Curated by Lenny Kaye. who with an all-star band of local rockers will be performing songs tomorrow@ night at the Beachland Ballroom in Cleveland!As is always the case when we’re joined by Dave Swanson, the conversation goes all over the place. Tons of great songs on this special episode!Listen tonight at 10 pm on The Summit FM. 91.3, or later anytime, wherever you get your podcasts!(Thanks to Brad Savage)