Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People (A Podcast About Acoustic Instruments, Music, & Artists)

If you have ever searched for acoustic guitar lessons or gear reviews on YouTube, you absolutely know the name Tony Polecastro! In this episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, the Chapmans are thrilled to sit down with one of the most recognizable faces and voices in the online guitar community: Tony Polecastro. As the founder of Acoustic Life and the creator of Tony's Acoustic Challenge, Tony has built a massive community dedicated to helping players break out of their ruts and build consistent, lifelong guitar routines. 📺 Check out Tony's Acoustic Challenge & Acoustic Life: Website: https://tonypolecastro.com/

In this incredible episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, the Chapmans are sitting down with absolute songwriting royalty: the one and only Larry Cordle! From penning monumental hits like "Highway 40 Blues" for Ricky Skaggs to "Murder on Music Row" for George Strait and Alan Jackson, Larry has left an undeniable mark on the acoustic and country music landscapes.

Thank you so much to Larry for sitting down with us! This episode was filmed live at the Starvy Creek July Festival 2026.

🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

We're honored to be joined this episode by Chris Alvarado and Rhett Shull! Both creating some of the best content for guitarist on the internet, Chris and Rhett go into their histories and why they started their channels. We're sure you have checked them out but if not, you can find Chris and Rhett on YouTube!

Thanks for sitting down with us guys! This episode was filmed live at the Fretboard Summit 2026. 🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

In this episode of the podcast, The Chapmans (and Hinkster) sit down to organize their thoughts and compare their recent trips to the Martin Guitars factory and the Taylor Guitars factory. These two legendary brands take very different approaches to building world-class acoustic instruments. We are breaking down the differences in their manufacturing processes, their company cultures, how they approach tonewood selection, and how those varying philosophies translate into the final tone of the guitars.If you have ever wondered exactly what separates a Martin from a Taylor behind the scenes, pull up a chair and join the conversation! 🔗Shop Taylor Guitars Here! - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/taylor-guitars 🔗Shop Martin Guitars Here! - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/all-martin 🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

We are live from the 2026 Starvy Creek Bluegrass Festival sitting down with one of the most iconic high tenor voices in the history of bluegrass!In this special on-location episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, the Chapmans set up shop backstage to chat with bluegrass legend and multi-time IBMA Vocalist of the Year, Larry Stephenson!With over 30 years leading The Larry Stephenson Band and decades of performing at the highest level, Larry shares incredible stories from his career, his deep roots in traditional bluegrass, and his take on how the genre has evolved over the years. We also talk mandolins, life on the festival circuit, and what makes performing at a historic venue like Starvy Creek so special to touring artists.

Two absolute legends, one incredible conversation! You do not want to miss this rare look into acoustic history.In this very special episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, the Chapmans are joined by two titans of the acoustic instrument world: Bob Taylor (founder of Taylor Guitars) and Greg Deering (founder of Deering Banjos)!Beyond building two of the most iconic, industry-leading brands in acoustic music, Bob and Greg share a deep, decades-long friendship that goes all the way back to their early days starting out in San Diego. In this interview, we dive into their shared history, how their early bond shaped their respective approaches to instrument manufacturing, and the mutual respect that has kept them close over a lifetime of innovation.Thank you so much to Bob and Greg for taking the time to sit down with us at the Fretboard Summit this year. It was a joy to hear their history. 🔗Shoppe Taylor Guitars - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/taylor-guitars 🔗Shoppe Deering Banjos - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/deering 🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

We packed up the podcast gear and took the show on the road to sit down with the undeniable Queen of Bluegrass! Welcome to a very special, live on-location episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, recorded right in the heart of the 2026 Starvy Creek Bluegrass Festival! The Chapmans had the absolute honor of sitting down backstage with bluegrass royalty, Rhonda Vincent. We talk about everything from the incredible energy of the Starvy Creek crowd to the dedication it takes to maintain a lifelong touring career in bluegrass music. Rhonda shares fantastic stories from the road, insights into her vocal and mandolin style, and what keeps her inspired after years of performing at the highest level.

🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes at one of the premier acoustic guitar stores in the country? We dive into how Austin joined the team, what a day in the life of a guitar store GM looks like, and some of the wild, unscripted moments that happen behind the scenes that you never get to see on camera. If you've ever wanted to get to know the team behind the videos or wondered how a high-end acoustic shop operates from the inside, you won't want to miss this one!

🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

In one of our funniest episodes yet, the Chapmans sit down with Paul Harris, the mastermind and frontman behind the legendary faux-family bluegrass band, The Cleverlys! We swap some wild stories from the road, share a ton of laughs, and dive deep into the actual origin story of the group. Paul breaks down exactly how he came up with the concept of "Digger Cleverly," the genius behind their iconic pop-turned-bluegrass covers, and the process of bringing together the right musicians to pull off such a unique blend of high-level picking and deadpan comedy.

🔗Be sure to follow the Cleverlys for upcoming shows! - https://thecleverlys.com/

🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

On this episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, the Chapmans are thrilled to sit down with Jason Verlinde, the author, creator, and driving force behind The Fretboard Journal. Jason has spent years documenting the incredible art of lutherie, shedding light on both legendary builders and up-and-coming guitar makers through world-class storytelling and photography. With The Acoustic Shoppe crew packing our bags to attend the highly anticipated Fretboard Summit in just a couple of weeks, there was no better time to bring Jason on the show! We discuss the origins of the magazine, the evolution of the boutique acoustic guitar market, and give you a sneak peek into what we are most excited to see (and play!) at this year's Summit.

In this rerun episode of "The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People," the Chapmans are incredibly honored to sit down with the legendary Rhonda Vincent! Known as the undisputed Queen of Bluegrass, Rhonda brings a lifetime of incredible stories, acoustic music history, and industry insights to the table.

We dive into her amazing career, what it takes to run one of the tightest bands in bluegrass, her favorite acoustic gear, and somehow... we even uncover "The Secret To Smelling Carrot Top!" Whether you are a lifelong fan of traditional bluegrass or just love hearing wild stories from the road, you are going to love this conversation.

In this exciting episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, we are thrilled to welcome our friend, TAS Community Pro, and recent American Idol winner, Hannah Harper!.

We dive deep into her musical roots, growing up in Southeast Missouri and traveling with The Harper Family band, singing bluegrass gospel. Hannah shares the story behind her viral, original audition song "String Cheese," a heartfelt tribute to the joys and struggles of motherhood that brought Carrie Underwood to tears. We also talk about her experience on American Idol, performing at the Grand Ole Opry, and how she balances her flourishing solo career with raising three little boys in her quiet house in the woods.

🔗Check out Hannah's Gear here! - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/hannah-harpers-gear-list

🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

👕Get Your TAS Merch!: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/shoppe-branded-merchandise

🪕Instruments At TAS --

⌁Guitars: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/guitars

⌁New Arrivals: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/new-arrivals

⌁Mandolins: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/mandolins

⌁Banjos: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/banjo

On this episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People podcast, the Chapmans sit down with CJ Lewandowski, the Grammy-nominated mandolin player and founder of The Po' Ramblin' Boys. CJ is a true torchbearer for authentic, 1960s-style bluegrass, and he brings a wealth of stories to the table. We talk about the origins of The Po' Ramblin' Boys, his incredible Gibson Loar mandolin (and his own signature Lewandowski mandolins!), the influence of legends like Bobby Osborne, and what it’s like keeping the flame of traditional bluegrass burning bright in 2026. We are so happy to say TAS Knows CJ Lewandowski!

Is it strange to write a description about my own episode? - Yes!Today on The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, we talk to our very own content producer - Hinkley! Hinks has been the content producer for the Acoustic Shoppe for 5 years and seen the entire growth of the channel. We go converse on the channel, it's challenges, her background, and how we grew this incredible community, mostly thanks to all of y'all. 🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

In this episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, we are pulling back the curtain on the music retail industry. We're getting candid about the brands we can't carry due to dealership restrictions, competitor pushback, and industry politics. But when one door closes, another opens! We explain how these roadblocks forced us to look elsewhere, leading us to discover the incredible brands that bloomed very special bonds. Ultimately, our core mission is—and always will be—finding the absolute best value for our customers at every single price point, rather than just chasing the biggest name on the headstock. 🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

In this episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, we are keeping it in the family and sitting down with our very own Sales Manager, Corey Kirkland! Corey shares his journey from being a local gigging musician and customer to officially running our sales floor. We pull back the curtain for some hilarious behind-the-scenes stories of the shop, nerd out over the acoustic gear we love, and talk about what it really takes to perfectly match a player with their ultimate instrument. 🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

On this episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People podcast, the Chapmans are incredibly honored to sit down with the one and only Alan Munde! Alan is a local legend and a national treasure. We dive deep into his unique approach to the banjo, what it was like teaching the next generation of pickers at South Plains College, and swap some of our favorite stories from the road. Whether you are a dedicated banjo player or just a huge fan of bluegrass history, you are going to love this conversation!

In this episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, the Chapmans are back from an exhausting but incredible trip to MerleFest. We share some crazy stories from the road—including Jeremy's midnight encounter with a deer and John's foot getting crushed by a booth cart.Then, we dive deep into the recent shakeups in the acoustic world. We discuss the current gap in the mid-tier mandolin market, the rumors surrounding former Northfield employees starting a new company called CooStar, and why The Acoustic Shoppe was told we could never be a Northfield dealer.Most importantly, we reveal our exciting new partnership with Gold Tone to carry their brand new, elite "Grandmaster" mandolin series! We also share some insider news on the highly-anticipated return of Recording King and The Loar mandolins. 🔗Check out Gold Tone Mandolins Here! - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/gold-tone-mandolins

We are joined by absolute acoustic royalty today! The one and only Tim O'Brien sits down with the Chapmans on this episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People podcast. From his groundbreaking days with Hot Rize to his incredible Grammy-winning solo career, Tim has been a massive influence on the bluegrass and acoustic music world for decades. We dive deep into his musical journey, his songwriting process, what he looks for in an instrument, and share some amazing stories from his time on the road. Whether you're a long-time fan of his music or just love hearing legendary pickers talk shop, you are not going to want to miss this conversation!

🎶Welcome the incredible Molly Tuttle to The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People podcast! As one of the most exciting voices and premier flatpickers in modern bluegrass, Molly sits down with us to discuss her entire musical journey. Later, we take some time to discuss her new Martin Guitar signature modes! We go into the design process, why two models were made, & how surreal it is to be honored by a legendary brand. The Acoustic Shoppe is thrilled to say we know Molly Tuttle! 🔗Follow Molly Tuttle: See a Show! - https://www.mollytuttlemusic.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mollytuttlemusic/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mollytuttle/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/4LX0KCPnH7gvxEbVXqXmAE?si=THo6SlDTRx2Hz-CbbmKfbA

If you could pick any musicians in the world to form the ultimate bluegrass supergroup, who would make your starting lineup?

On this episode of the Acoustic Shoppe Knows People podcast, the Chapmans are taking a break from interviews to have a little fun with a Bluegrass Fantasy Draft! We go position by position—guitar, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, bass, and vocals—to build our absolute dream bands.

There were some stolen picks, a few controversial choices, and a whole lot of acoustic music nerd talk. Watch to see our final lineups, and be sure to hit the comments to let us know who you think drafted the best band (and who you would have picked instead)!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

👕Get Your TAS Merch!: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/shoppe-branded-merchandise 🪕Instruments At TAS -- ⌁Guitars: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/guitars ⌁New Arrivals: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/new-arrivals ⌁Mandolins: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/mandolins ⌁Banjos: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/banjo

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

0:00 - Intro

1:20 - The Draft Rules Explained

4:44 - Round 1 Picks

8:23 - Round 2 Picks

11:40 - Round 3 Picks

15:04 - Round 4 Picks

18:00 - Round 5 Picks

20:56 - Round 6 Picks

24:32 - Honorable Mentions

26:31 - Naming the Bands

28:07 - Outro

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

🌎Follow The Acoustic Shoppe Everywhere! -- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheAcousticShoppe/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theacousticshoppe/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theacousticshoppe TAS Knows People Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1yM0Y64DROnRmg9FfWnmNY?si=b76e9b34d9ab4694 Our Website: https://www.theacousticshoppe.com/

Reverb: https://reverb.com/shop/the-acoustic-shoppe

🎙️We use Ear Trumpet Labs Microphones for instrument demos - Thank you Ear Trumpet Labs! https://www.eartrumpetlabs.com/

👍Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon to stay updated with all things Acoustic Shoppe. Follow us on our journey through the music world, and share your thoughts in the comments below!

#BluegrassMusic #AcousticGuitar #GuitarInstrumental #MusicLovers #TheAcousticShoppeReviews

Have you ever walked into a guitar store and expected a discount right off the bat? If so, you definitely aren't alone! In this episode of the Acoustic Shoppe Knows People podcast, we pull back the curtain on the music retail industry to talk about a slightly controversial topic: discounts and haggling.

We dive deep into the history of MSRP vs. MAP pricing, the "race to the bottom", big box stores, and why we, as a family business, choose not to discount our instruments. We explain what you are actually paying for when you buy at full price (like rigorous inspections, professional setups, and top-tier customer service) and reveal the few specific scenarios where it is totally appropriate to ask a retailer for a deal!

Takeaways:

• The discussion centered around the complexities and nuances of asking for discounts in music retail, emphasizing the importance of understanding the retailer's pricing structure.
• The importance of customer service and the value it adds to the shopping experience was highlighted throughout the conversation.
• A significant point raised was the evolving nature of the music retail industry, particularly regarding the introduction of Minimum Advertised Pricing (MAP).
• Listeners were encouraged to consider the broader implications of purchasing decisions, including the support of local businesses and the value of community engagement.
• The hosts noted that while discounts can be appealing, they often come at the expense of customer service and product quality.
• An underlying theme was the necessity for transparent communication between retailers and customers regarding pricing and the reasons behind it.

In this episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, the guys sit down for an in-depth conversation with acclaimed actor and musician Jeff Daniels. Jeff shares fascinating stories from his 50-year career, the parallels between acting and songwriting, and his deep connection to acoustic music. He also gives us a look at his impressive guitar collection, including his custom Martin signature model and a very special Gibson J-45 signed by George Harrison.

Join us for a legendary sit-down with Jeff Daniels! Known for his iconic roles on screen and stage, Jeff is also an accomplished songwriter and fingerstyle guitarist. We dive into his musical journey, from learning Travis picking as a young actor in New York to opening his own music and theater venue, JD’s, in Chelsea, Michigan. Jeff explains why playing live solo is "terrifying" compared to acting and why he believes live, acoustic performance is something AI can never truly replace. Plus, don't miss the story behind his 1934 Martin C-2 archtop that Martin eventually turned into a signature model!

Ever wonder what goes into building some of the most sought-after boutique acoustic guitars in the world? Today on the podcast, we are incredibly honored to sit down with Guillaume and James from the renowned Boucher Guitars! Flying in from Quebec, Canada, Guillaume and James take us behind the scenes of the Boucher workshop. We dive deep into how it all started, their legendary supply of Appalachian Adirondack Spruce, and what exactly gives a Boucher guitar its signature powerhouse tone. Whether you are a proud Boucher owner or just a massive acoustic guitar nerd like us, you are going to love hearing the passion and expertise these guys pour into every single instrument. 🔗Shoppe all Boucher Guitars here! - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/boucher --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 👕Get Your TAS Merch!: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/shoppe-branded-merchandise 🪕Instruments At TAS -- ⌁Guitars: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/guitars ⌁New Arrivals: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/new-arrivals ⌁Mandolins: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/mandolins ⌁Banjos: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/banjo -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 🌎Follow The Acoustic Shoppe Everywhere! -- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheAcousticShoppe/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theacousticshoppe/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theacousticshoppe TAS Knows People Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1yM0Y64DROnRmg9FfWnmNY?si=b76e9b34d9ab4694 Our Website: https://www.theacousticshoppe.com/ Reverb: https://reverb.com/shop/the-acoustic-shoppe 🎙️We use Ear Trumpet Labs Microphones for instrument demos - Thank you Ear Trumpet Labs! https://www.eartrumpetlabs.com/ 👍Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon to stay updated with all things Acoustic Shoppe. Follow us on our journey through the music world, and share your thoughts in the comments below! #BluegrassMusic #AcousticGuitar #GuitarInstrumental #MusicLovers #TheAcousticShoppeReviews

Welcome to another episode! This time, John, Jason, and Jeremy are joined by Coen and Milo from The Fellowship of the Acoustics, streaming all the way from the Netherlands.

In this episode, the guys bridge the gap between Springfield, Missouri, and the European acoustic scene to talk shop, swap wild retail stories, and do a little bit of John's famous "market research". They discuss how independent stores can stand out against online goliaths by building a trusting community and prioritizing proper instrument setups. Plus, they prove that the guitar industry is always better when stores collaborate instead of compete.

What's Inside this Episode:

1. A Historic Guitar Haven: Coen and Milo share how they transformed an old town hall into a massive guitar store, complete with a lunchroom and eight dedicated brand rooms.
2. Retail Nightmares & Funny Tales: The guys swap stories about the hazards of the job, from stolen empty guitar cases and a bathroom-hogging homeless man , to Coen accidentally stabbing his first good acoustic with a pizza knife.
3. US vs. European Guitar Markets: A deep dive into what acoustic brands reign supreme overseas, including the massive popularity of Loudon and Atkin guitars.
4. The Cheap Guitar Trap: Why the guys refuse to sell sub-$100 acoustics, explaining how terrible playability on cheap instruments causes most beginners to quit.
5. Exclusive Gear Reveal: John shares a sneak peek at an upcoming collaboration: the gorgeous Cordovan Red Bourgeois M5F mandolin.

Grab your coffee (or iced Dubai mocha) and tune in!

Takeaways:

1. The Fellowship of Acoustics originated from Coen Bults' great-grandfather's decision to learn music in the 1930s, highlighting a rich musical heritage.
2. Rudi Bults' transition from landscaping to founding TFOA in 2001 marked a pivotal moment in the family's commitment to music, starting with vintage guitars.
3. Coen Bults' role as Managing Director has been instrumental in modernizing TFOA, emphasizing their evolution into a multifaceted music platform.
4. The unique design of The Guitar Villa, with themed rooms and a dedicated vault for exclusive instruments, showcases TFOA's dedication to creating a memorable shopping experience.
5. TFOA's use of PLEK technology for precise guitar setups sets them apart, ensuring every instrument meets the highest standards before reaching customers.
6. The community aspect of TFOA, exemplified by their café and concert space, fosters a welcoming environment for music lovers and enhances customer loyalty.

If you have ever searched for flatpicking lessons on YouTube, you already know our next guest! Today on the Acoustic Shoppe Knows People podcast, we are hanging out with Marcel Ardans from the incredibly popular channel, Lessons With Marcel. We dive deep into his journey of building a massive bluegrass educational platform, discuss the nuances of Tony Rice's style, geek out over acoustic guitar tone, and share plenty of laughs along the way. Whether you are a seasoned flatpicker or just love acoustic guitar culture, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

🔗Woodshed Labs - https://woodshedlabs.io/ Follow Marcel! - @LessonsWithMarcel

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

👕Get Your TAS Merch!: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/shoppe-branded-merchandise 🪕Instruments At TAS -- ⌁Guitars: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/guitars ⌁New Arrivals: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/new-arrivals ⌁Mandolins: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/mandolins ⌁Banjos: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/banjo -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

🌎Follow The Acoustic Shoppe Everywhere! -- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheAcousticShoppe/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theacousticshoppe/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theacousticshoppe TAS Knows People Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1yM0Y64DROnRmg9FfWnmNY?si=b76e9b34d9ab4694 Our Website: https://www.theacousticshoppe.com/ Reverb: https://reverb.com/shop/the-acoustic-shoppe

🎙️We use Ear Trumpet Labs Microphones for instrument demos - Thank you Ear Trumpet Labs! https://www.eartrumpetlabs.com/

👍Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon to stay updated with all things Acoustic Shoppe. Follow us on our journey through the music world, and share your thoughts in the comments below! #BluegrassMusic #AcousticGuitar #GuitarInstrumental #MusicLovers #TheAcousticShoppeReviews

Darren spent over 15 years as a founding member of the award-winning bluegrass supergroup Balsam Range before stepping out on his own. In this episode, we dive deep into his musical journey, his deep love for traditional Appalachian music, what inspired his transition to a solo career, and, of course, we talk gear and mandolins! Whether you've been a fan of his for years or are just discovering his incredible picking, you won't want to miss this conversation.

🎵 Check out Darren’s latest music and tour dates: https://www.darrennicholson.net/

🎸 Shop Acoustic Instruments at The Acoustic Shoppe: https://theacousticshoppe.com/ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 👕Get Your TAS Merch!: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/shoppe-branded-merchandise 🪕Instruments At TAS -- ⌁Guitars: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/guitars ⌁New Arrivals: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/new-arrivals ⌁Mandolins: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/mandolins ⌁Banjos: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/banjo -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

🌎Follow The Acoustic Shoppe Everywhere! -- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheAcousticShoppe/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theacousticshoppe/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theacousticshoppe TAS Knows People Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1yM0Y64DROnRmg9FfWnmNY?si=b76e9b34d9ab4694 Our Website: https://www.theacousticshoppe.com/ Reverb: https://reverb.com/shop/the-acoustic-shoppe

🎙️We use Ear Trumpet Labs Microphones for instrument demos - Thank you, Ear Trumpet Labs! https://www.eartrumpetlabs.com/

👍Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon to stay updated with all things Acoustic Shoppe. Follow us on our journey through the music world, and share your thoughts in the comments below! #BluegrassMusic #AcousticGuitar #GuitarInstrumental #MusicLovers #TheAcousticShoppeReviews

John, Jeremy, and Jason tackle one of the most debated topics in the acoustic world today: instrument affordability in 2026. With high-end boutique builds reaching new price heights and "entry-level" gear shifting in quality and cost, the crew discusses where the market is headed. Is the dream of owning a professional-grade instrument still attainable for the average player? ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

👕Get Your TAS Merch!: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/shoppe-branded-merchandise 🪕Instruments At TAS -- ⌁Guitars: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/guitars ⌁New Arrivals: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/new-arrivals ⌁Mandolins: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/mandolins ⌁Banjos: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/banjo -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00 - The Chapman Kids 04:42 - Today's Topic 05:56 - Are Instruments Too Much? 07:41 - Comparing Professions 11:18 - Bluegrass Mindset 16:16 - Do You Judge The Product? 20:38 - Is Music Undervalued? 27:08 - Opinions on the Internet 33:14 - A Working Man's Guitar? --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

🌎Follow The Acoustic Shoppe Everywhere! -- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheAcousticShoppe/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theacousticshoppe/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theacousticshoppe TAS Knows People Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1yM0Y64DROnRmg9FfWnmNY?si=b76e9b34d9ab4694 Our Website: https://www.theacousticshoppe.com/ Reverb: https://reverb.com/shop/the-acoustic-shoppe

🎙️We use Ear Trumpet Labs Microphones for instrument demos - Thank you Ear Trumpet Labs! https://www.eartrumpetlabs.com/

👍Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon to stay updated with all things Acoustic Shoppe. Follow us on our journey through the music world, and share your thoughts in the comments below! #BluegrassMusic #AcousticGuitar #GuitarInstrumental #MusicLovers #TheAcousticShoppeReviews

The dust has settled on Anaheim, and the 2026 NAMM Show is officially in the books. In this episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Podcast, we sit down to unpack the entire week—the highs, the lows, and the undeniable shifts in the music industry. While there were plenty of incredible instrument launches from brands like Martin, Boucher, and Eastman, we can't ignore the elephant in the room: What is the future of the NAMM Show? With the landscape of trade shows changing rapidly, we have a serious discussion about the viability of the convention, how it’s evolving, and whether it still holds the same weight for dealers and manufacturers as it did a decade ago. It’s not all heavy industry talk, though. We also share our personal "Best in Show" picks, the hidden gems we stumbled upon, and the gear that actually lived up to the hype. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

👕Get Your TAS Merch!: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/shoppe-branded-merchandise 🪕Instruments At TAS -- ⌁Guitars: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/guitars ⌁New Arrivals: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/new-arrivals ⌁Mandolins: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/mandolins ⌁Banjos: https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/banjo -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00 - Sleeping Like A Chapman 05:58 - Today's Subject 06:37 - The Learning Sessions 08:11 - Our First NAMM vs Now 10:53 - NAMM Is Transitioning 14:18 - NAMM Expenses 17:38 - Brands That Haven't Shown 23:16 - Event Specifics 28:13 - Deering 31:00 - What Went Right 35:19 - A Fresh Perspective 38:58 - 2026 Attendance 45:41 - What If We Never Went? 47:38 - Our Winners This Year 53:40 - Product Development 55:57 - Conclusions --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

🌎Follow The Acoustic Shoppe Everywhere! -- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheAcousticShoppe/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theacousticshoppe/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theacousticshoppe TAS Knows People Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1yM0Y64DROnRmg9FfWnmNY?si=b76e9b34d9ab4694 Our Website: https://www.theacousticshoppe.com/ Reverb: https://reverb.com/shop/the-acoustic-shoppe

🎙️We use Ear Trumpet Labs Microphones for instrument demos - Thank you Ear Trumpet Labs! https://www.eartrumpetlabs.com/

👍Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon to stay updated with all things Acoustic Shoppe. Follow us on our journey through the music world, and share your thoughts in the comments below! #BluegrassMusic #AcousticGuitar #GuitarInstrumental #MusicLovers #TheAcousticShoppeReviews

What do "Brown Eyed Girl" on a Caribbean cruise and the Foo Fighters have in common? Ashby Frank joins the podcast to reminisce about growing up as the son of a District Attorney in the heart of North Carolina's picking culture, and how a Christmas wish for an electric guitar accidentally launched a mandolin career. We dive into his work with the Earls of Leicester, his songwriting process, and why he’s ready to face the "rage-bait" of the bluegrass world with his newest single.

In this episode of the podcast, John, Jeremy, and Jason tackle the big questions: Is AI going to change the acoustic music world? And more importantly—will The Acoustic Shoppe survive the shifting economic landscape? From Jeremy’s recent trip to the Goldman Sachs housing summit in D.C. to stories about Martha Stewart and the "Great Penny Shortage," we’re diving into business, survival, and the future of our community.

Happy New Year (almost)! This week we're counting down our favorite things from 2025 in relation to The Acoustic Shoppe. That is, our favorite instruments, events, & personal goals we've achieved this year.We want to take a second and say thank you for an incredible year. This has by far been the best one yet for our business and we ae so excited to see where 2026 will take us.

In this episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, we sit down with the legendary multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and storyteller J.P. Cormier. From his early days as a prodigy to becoming one of the most respected musicians in bluegrass, folk, and Celtic music, J.P. opens up about the road, the craft, the struggles, and the moments that shaped him.We dive into his musical influences, his approach to songwriting and flatpicking, behind-the-scenes road stories, the realities of the music industry, and the resilience it takes to build a lifelong career in acoustic music. Whether you’re a fan of J.P.’s incredible picking or simply love hearing honest conversations from real-world musicians, this episode is packed with insight and heart.If you enjoy deep musical conversations and want more artist interviews, make sure to like, comment, and subscribe for future episodes of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People.

Remember when Lloyd Loars and Pre-War Martins were about 20-30k, we do too! Weather it was for an investment or maybe a nostalgic reason, I know we all have instruments that we wish would could get a second chance at. We have encountered TONS over the years, here's a list of the ones that still haunt us.

💬Let us know below, what's your one that got away? 🎵We're giving away a guitar! Learn More -- https://youtu.be/sx_iHWo8yz4

This episode we welcome back the one and only Richard Hoover of Santa Cruz guitars! He was one of our very first episodes on this podcast and we were lucky to get a bit of his time to become a repeat guest on the show.We deep dive into Richards past, reflecting on 50 years of guitar building and what the future holds. safe to say, The Acoustic Shoppe now knows Richard Hoover even more than before! ⁨

Darrin is one of the most influential voices, producers, & creators in the Bluegrass 7 country music world - you may just not realize it! As a producer and backup vocalist, he has been featured on countless hits. We so happy to have him on the podcast to discuss behind the scenes moments, touring moments, and how he became successful!

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Alvarado and Matt Miller of Driftwood Guitars—master luthiers and YouTube creators known for their stunning custom acoustic builds. We dive into their journey from hobbyists to full-time guitar makers, how YouTube transformed their business, and the challenges of balancing craftsmanship with content creation.

From passing out at a sweltering Bluegrass festival to being stuck in a Canadian blizzard, the Chapmans have had quite the experiences in their 20+ years of touring. For those that only know The Acoustic Shoppe, before all of this the Chapmans were a family band! Take a trip with us down memory lane as John, Jason, & Jeremy talk about their best and worst moments on the road.

The Acoustic Shoppe Knows Tony Polecastro! Back at the Fretboard Summit we had the opportunity to sit down with incredible individuals in the acoustic world, one of which was Tony! Here we deep dive into his history with the Old Town School of Folk, his YouTube career, & his innovative and inspiring methods of spreading acoustic guitar. Thank you for joining us, Tony!

In this episode of TAS Knows People, we know David Grier! - One of the most influential flatpickers of our time.David shares stories from his musical journey, his approach to flatpicking, thoughts on creativity, and advice for players at any stage. With decades of performance and teaching experience, he brings humor, honesty, and deep insight into the world of acoustic guitar.🔗https://www.davidgrier.com/ Follow David Grier! - https://www.facebook.com/DavidGrierMusic

In this episode of the Acoustic Shoppe Podcast, we sit down with banjo virtuoso and musical storyteller Jens Kruger for a rich and insightful conversation. This conversation holds much more than just insight into playing music, but also shares funny and heartwarming stories from Jens' life. Thank you for this conversation, Jens!

In this candid episode of the Acoustic Shoppe Podcast, we open up about the uncertain future of music retail.We share our real-world experiences from inside the shop, how the market has changed in recent years, and the growing challenges of selling acoustic instruments in a digital-first world.From shifting customer habits to supply chain changes and brand dynamics, we discuss what keeps us hopeful — and what keeps us up at night.

In this episode of TAS Knows People Podcast, we’re joined by Pete Mroz and Shannon Pollard, the new owners of Breedlove Guitars, following the retirement of Tom Bedell.We dive into their backgrounds, their vision for the future of Breedlove, and how they plan to continue its legacy of innovation, sustainability, and tone.If you’re a Breedlove fan or just love hearing what’s next for acoustic guitar brands, this is a must-watch episode!🔗Shoppe Our Breedlove Guitars Here! - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/breedlove🔗Shoppe Our Bedell Guitars Here! - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/bedell

We're joined by a very special guest today - Chris Meikle from Alvarez Guitars! Chris, one of the great minds of business and guitar designing, stopped by to give us some insight on the history of St. Louis Music and Alvarez/Yairi guitars. Thanks so much for stopping by, Chris! 🔗Shoppe our collection of Alvarez/Yairi Models here! - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/alvarez-yairi

In this episode of the Acoustic Shoppe Podcast, we’re talking all things Fretboard Summit 2025 — and yes, we’re attending!We share what we’re most excited about this year: exclusive guitars, builder showcases, workshops, and the overall celebration of all things acoustic. From legendary luthiers to the jam circles, it's one of the most inspiring events in the guitar world.🔗Learn more about the Fretboard Summit here! - https://fretboardsummit.org/

We’re proud to welcome Maton Guitars to The Acoustic Shoppe family! In this episode of the Acoustic Shoppe Podcast, we sit down with Rob & Kevin, two members of the Maton team to learn more about the company’s Australian roots, approach to craftsmanship, and what sets their guitars apart.Whether you’re new to Maton or already a fan, this episode is full of insights into tonewoods, design, and why Maton has earned such a loyal following.🔗View Our Maton Guitars In Stock Here! - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/maton-guitars

In this episode of the Acoustic Shoppe Podcast, we take a break from reviews and artist interviews to talk about something a little different—our favorite competitors in the music retail world!From the way they run their shops to how they treat their customers, these businesses make the acoustic industry better. We highlight some of the stores we love collaborating with, learning from, and supporting, and why we think healthy competition makes us all better.

In this special PTSD Awareness Month episode, we’re joined by Nigel Fischer of Guitars for Vets—a program that provides guitars and lessons to U.S. military veterans working through PTSD and other challenges.Nigel shares his personal story as both a graduate and now a team member of the program, explaining how music helped him through his own healing journey. We also talk about how Guitars for Vets works, the power of community, and how a simple guitar can change a life.🎗️ This month, we’re also raising funds to help purchase new guitars for veterans in the program. Learn how you can get involved, donate, and make a real impact.🔗Donate to Guitars For Vets Today! - https://theacousticshoppe.com/products/guitars-for-vets 🔗Breedlove Bid - https://givebutter.com/c/sxQjjG/auction/items/1043236 🔗Learn More About Guitars For Vets - https://guitars4vets.org/ -------------------------------------------------------------------#GuitarsForVets #Veterans #AcousticShoppePodcast #BluegrassMusic #AcousticGuitar #GuitarInstrumental #MusicLovers #TheAcousticShoppeReviews

We caught up with Lilian Werbin of Elderly Instruments at IBMA, where we talked about the store's legacy, its evolving role in the acoustic community, and what it's like running one of the most respected music shops in the country! From supporting artists to preserving tradition while embracing change, this conversation is a deep dive into the acoustic retail world, Lilian's story, and where Elderly Instruments will grow! Thank you Lilian for sitting down with us for this conversation!  @ElderlyInstruments  🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations from IBMA and beyond.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------👕Get Your TAS Merch!: https://bit.ly/TASMerch🪕Instruments At TAS -- ⌁Check out our Guitars here: https://bit.ly/TASGuitars ⌁Check out our New Arrivals here: https://bit.ly/TAS-New-Arrivals⌁Check out our Dreadnought Guitars here: https://bit.ly/TASDreadnoughts⌁Check out our Mandolins here: https://bit.ly/TASMandolins⌁Check out our Banjos here: https://bit.ly/TASBanjos

🌎Follow The Acoustic Shoppe Everywhere! --Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheAcousticShoppe/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theacousticshoppe/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theacousticshoppeTAS Knows People Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1yM0Y64DROnRmg9FfWnmNY?si=b76e9b34d9ab4694Our Website: https://www.theacousticshoppe.com/Reverb: https://reverb.com/shop/the-acoustic-shoppe🎙️We use Ear Trumpet Labs Microphones for instrument demos - Thank you Ear Trumpet Labs! https://www.eartrumpetlabs.com/👍Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon to stay updated with all things Acoustic Shoppe. Follow us on our journey through the music world, and share your thoughts in the comments below!#ElderlyInstrumetns #LilianWerbin #AcousticMusicStores #TheAcosuticShoppeKnowsPeople #AcousticShoppePodcast #BluegrassMusic #AcousticGuitar #GuitarInstrumental #MusicLovers #TheAcousticShoppeReviews