For decades, Nels Cline carved out a career on the fringes of rock, jazz, and experimental music, balancing day jobs with an uncompromising artistic vision. Then, at nearly 50 years old, everything changed—he joined Wilco, bringing his avant-garde sensibilities into a beloved band and reaching a global audience. But Cline's story isn't one of sudden success; it's about persistence, reinvention, and creative restlessness. In this episode, he reflects on his journey—from growing up in Los Angeles with his twin brother, drummer Alex Cline, to navigating the punk and avant-garde jazz scenes, to his latest album, Consentrik Quartet (Blue Note Records), which explores the tension between stillness and chaos, structure and improvisation. Cline speaks candidly about collaboration, musical identity, and the ever-evolving nature of his work, proving that there's no single timeline for artistic success—only the drive to keep going.

www.third-story.com www.leosidran.substack.com https://www.wbgo.org/podcast/the-third-story

Self-proclaimed "badass and blind" singer, songwriter, guitarist Raul Midón in an expansive and deeply personal conversation about music, identity, independence, and the art of seeing clearly without sight. From his childhood fascination with radio and jazz in a small New Mexico town to his breakout moment in New York with legendary producer Arif Mardin, Midón shares the story of how he forged his unique artistic path. Blind since infancy, Midón has navigated life and a career with extraordinary intention and vision. He discusses the development of his signature sound — a percussive, virtuosic guitar style combined with his soulful voice and signature trumpet-like vocal improvisation — as well as his time as a session singer, his decision to pursue a solo career, and his commitment to self-producing and engineering his own records. Here he also touches on his political awareness, his reflections on artistry and authenticity, and the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of making music. Whether he's performing solo or recording in his Maryland home studio, Midón offers a masterclass in independence, self-expression, and the power of knowing — and trusting — yourself.

www.third-story.comwww.leosidran.substack.com www.wbgo.org/podcast/the-third-story

Dan Harris is the former ABC News anchor whose on-air panic attack catalyzed his transformation from skeptical journalist to meditation ambassador.

This conversation explores Dan’s journey with meditation—from stress management tool to profound inquiry into consciousness and uncertainty. We discuss his practice evolving far beyond his bestselling book and podcast “10% Happier,” his transformative encounters with the Dalai Lama, and how Buddhist principles provided equanimity during his challenging business separation.

Dan reveals how meditation builds emotional resilience—teaching us to observe our thoughts rather than being owned by them. Enjoy!

Show notes + MORE

Watch on YouTube

Newsletter Sign-Up 

Today’s Sponsors:

Seed: Use code RICHROLL25 for 25% OFF your first order 👉seed.com/RichRoll          

Go Brewing: Use the code Rich Roll for 15% OFF 👉gobrewing.com     

Airbnb: Your home might be worth more than you think. Find out how much at 👉 airbnb.com/host                                                                            

CALM: Get 40% off a Calm Premium subscription 👉 calm.com/richroll

Birch Living: For 20% OFF sitewide👉BirchLiving.com/richroll

L-Nutra: Get 15% OFF plus a FREE bonus gift 👉 prolonlife.com/richroll

Check out all of the amazing discounts from our Sponsors 👉 richroll.com/sponsors

Find out more about Voicing Change Media at voicingchange.media and follow us @voicingchange

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices