In this episode of Freddy and Friends, I sit down with Louie Palmer — drummer, educator, and founder of Play Better Drums. Known for his technical precision and deep musical vocabulary, Louie opens up about his journey from London to Los Angeles, his influences, and how he’s navigating the changing landscape of the drumming world.

We get into:

• Moving from London to LA and finding the right creative environment

• Early inspiration from legends like Dave Weckl, Dennis Chambers, and Tony Williams

• The pros and cons of traditional grip in a modern context

• Building Play Better Drums and passing on the lineage of great drumming

• The rise of short-form drumming clips — and why he values musicality over trends

• How tennis, daily habits, and self-criticism keep him sharp

• His upcoming work with Greg Howe and the challenge of writing his own music

Whether you’re a drummer, a musician, or just someone interested in discipline, resilience, and passion, Louie’s story is packed with insight.

In this episode of Freddy & Friends, I sit down with Grant L. Roberts, one of the most sought-after body transformation experts in Hollywood.

He’s the man behind iconic physiques like Hilary Swank in Million Dollar Baby, Kumail Nanjiani in Eternals and Nicholas Alexander Chavez in The Menendez Story — but this conversation goes way beyond fitness.

We talk about:

• How he prepares actors to embody world-class athletes on screen
• Why discipline is the ultimate self-love
• Body recomposition and what most people get wrong about weight loss
• The connection between physical change and emotional transformation
• His mission to bring real wellness into communities through Healthy and Fit Communities

This one is packed with no-BS insight on what it takes to level up your body, mind, and life — sustainably.

In this episode of Freddy & Friends, I sit down with my brother-in-law, Louis India, who made a bold decision most people only dream about — leaving the U.S. and building a completely different life in Vietnam.

From his early days as a snowboard bum to navigating culture shock and burnout in Ho Chi Minh City, Louis shares what it really means to reject the rat race and prioritize peace of mind over status or money.

We talk about:

• Moving abroad with just $5,000 and a TEFL certificate

• The grind of starting over in a foreign country

• Learning resilience, independence, and self-reliance

• How Vietnam gave him space to grow, reset, and stay grounded

• The trip he's planning with his father — a Vietnam War veteran — to close a 50-year loop

Whether you’re burned out, curious about expat life, or just tired of the same old script, this conversation is packed with perspective and calm clarity.

In this episode of Freddy & Friends, Dr. Alexander Rizk shares what led him to rethink the way modern medicine is practiced.

We talk about:

• The problem with the standard doctor-patient relationship

• How the system is failing both patients and doctors

• What it means to actually listen — and why most healthcare doesn’t

• Balancing hustle with health, and what presence really means in medicine

It’s not about hype or hacks — it’s about human connection, honest care, and reimagining what it means to help someone heal.

 

Episode 4 of Freddy & Friends just dropped — and this one is a ride.

I sat down with my good friend Stencil, someone I’ve known for years… and somehow barely knew anything about. Until now.

We covered a lot, including:

• How he built a life in LA juggling 3+ jobs just to stay in the game

• The wild story of waking up to a stranger in his house

• His experience on Dennis Rodman’s relationship podcast (yup, for real)

• A deep dive into crypto, NFTs, the metaverse, and the real future of money

• DMT trips, reincarnation, and how spirituality pulled him back from the edge

It’s raw, honest, and full of laughs — but also unexpectedly moving. This one’s for anyone who's ever questioned how we got here… or where we’re going.

In this episode of Freddy & Friends, I sit down with Guy Riggio — one of the most sought-after hairstylists in the entertainment industry.

From his early days in New York apprenticing under Vidal Sassoon’s protégés to working on major film sets like Twilight and Blade, Guy’s career has spanned fashion editorials, red carpets, and some of Hollywood’s most recognizable names.

We talk about:

• The art of transformation — behind the chair and on camera

• What it takes to thrive in high-pressure creative industries

• Lessons from working with stars like Nicole Kidman, Ryan Reynolds, and Meg Ryan

• Staying grounded while navigating fame, ego, and reinvention

Whether you’re in the creative field or just love hearing how icons are made behind the scenes — this one’s a gem.

In this episode of Freddy & Friends, I sit down with Jesus Perez, a gym owner who built his fitness business from the ground up — with no investors, no trust fund, and no shortcuts. We go deep on:

• What it really takes to open a gym in one of the most expensive neighborhoods in America
• How Jesus went client by client, hustle by hustle
• The power of staying focused, disciplined, and playing the long game
• Why real success still comes from doing the work — even when nobody’s watching

This is a raw, real convo about grit, self-belief, and building something from scratch. If you’re an entrepreneur, creator, or just someone chasing something bigger — this one’s for you.

In this episode of the Freddy & Friends Podcast, I sit down with world-renowned drummer Thomas Lang to dive deep into the mindset, discipline, and technique behind one of the most iconic drumming careers of our time.

We talk about: - The myth of talent vs. discipline - What separates good drummers from great ones - Stories from touring the world - His thoughts on modern drummers and the future of the industry

Thomas Lang has worked with global artists, pushed technical boundaries, and continues to inspire drummers worldwide with his unmatched skill and insight.

If you’re a drummer, music lover, or creative visionary, this one’s for you.

Subscribe for more in-depth interviews with world-class musicians, artists, and thought leaders.

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In this episode of Freddy and Friends, I sit down with Julian Black — restaurateur, musician, and creative force behind Alba Los Angeles and Cucina Alba in New York City.

Julian shares his journey from growing up in LA to becoming assistant GM at Carbone in New York, running some of the most iconic dining rooms in the country, and now returning to LA to set new standards in food, service, and hospitality.

We talk about:

• The differences between running restaurants in LA vs. New York

• Lessons from working at Carbone and The Grill

• Why leadership means “killing with kindness”

• Balancing the grind of hospitality with music, health, and personal growth

• His creative side as a guitarist and what Laurel Canyon means to him

• Daily practices like cold plunges, fitness, and therapy that keep him grounded

This conversation is part restaurant masterclass, part life reflection, and part jam session. Whether you’re in the industry, love food, or just want to hear from someone chasing excellence while staying human, this one delivers.

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, Freddy sits down with extreme metal drumming pioneer James Payne, known for his elite foot technique, biomechanics-informed approach, and work with bands like Hiss From The Moat, Kataklysm, and major international tours.

Freddy and James dive deep into the real mechanics behind speed, endurance, longevity, and the mental game of elite drumming. James shares how he went from zero formal training to becoming one of the most technically advanced drummers in the world and why efficiency, body awareness, and smart practice beat raw force every time.

If you’re a drummer, this episode will re-wire your brain. If you’re not, you’ll still learn a ton about mastery, physical intelligence, and the future of extreme music.

Topics include:

• How James built elite technique from scratch without formal training
• Why your body’s “laziness” can be your secret advantage
• Muscle activation, deactivation & why “relax” isn’t enough
• Practicing for longevity (no injuries, no burnout)
• The evolution of modern speed drumming & culture
• The next frontier after 300 BPM
• Habits, mindset & why technique is mostly psychology

Whether you’re into drums, discipline, or deep nerdy breakdowns, this one hits hard.

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, Freddy sits down with drummer Greg Clark Jr., fresh off tour with Will Smith and coming off a jazz tribute run with Ledisi. From his roots in the D.C. church scene to high-pressure TV gigs with Ricky Minor and fusion shows with Stanley Clarke, Greg breaks down what it really takes to build a long, sustainable music career.

They talk groove versus chops, negotiating your rate, the politics of the bandstand, and how D.C. basements forged a generation of monsters. Greg’s philosophy? “The shed is for you. The gig is for the song.”

Key Moments

• Church roots, D.C. culture, and why the scene raised killers
• Lessons from Aaron Spears and the “basement wars”
• The unspoken rules of professionalism and accountability
• Real-world gig stories: Will Smith, Snarky Puppy, Stanley Clarke
• The art of negotiation and unity among working drummers
• Learning from failure and why consistency wins
• Favorite albums that changed his playing
• Why groove always beats chops

Where to Find Greg

Instagram: @gregclarkjr Website: gregclarkjr.com

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, Freddy sits down with Jeremy Strubel — a conscious chef and breathwork guide based in Venice, California. Jeremy’s story is one of transformation: from 18 years in high-pressure restaurant kitchens to creating holistic dining and wellness experiences that blend food, breath, and community.

We explore:

• His culinary journey, from culinary school to L’Orangerie in Beverly Hills to co-founding Winsom in Los Angeles

• The burnout, PTSD, and health challenges that forced him to step away from traditional kitchens

• How breathwork became a cornerstone for healing, grounding, and personal growth

• His unique approach to combining conscious cooking and breathwork in private dinners, retreats, and events

• Daily habits like “habit stacking,” and why self-compassion matters more than rigid discipline

• Reflections on failure, creativity, and building a healthier, more connected life

Jeremy is now developing multi-day retreats on California’s central coast, bringing together food, breath, and community in a way that feels both nourishing and transformative.

Where to Find Jeremy:

Instagram: @j.strubel

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, Freddy sits down with drummer and educator JP Bouvet for a deep dive into drumming, teaching, and life. From winning the 2011 Guitar Center Drum-Off at just 21 to building his online school jpbouvetmethod.com, JP has become a leading voice in modern drum education.

We cover:

• The breakthrough moment of winning the Drum-Off and how he turned fleeting attention into a long-term career

• His unique, psychology-driven method for teaching improvisation and making complex drumming accessible

• The role of improvisation as a language, not just for solos but for composing grooves and shaping musical moments

• Why he left the touring lifestyle behind to focus on education, family, and creativity

• His marketing journey — from resisting ads to embracing meme-style outreach while staying authentic

• Daily habits, parenting philosophy, and the health practices that keep him balanced as both a father and entrepreneur

JP’s story is about much more than drumming — it’s about discipline, creativity, and building a meaningful life.

Where to Find JP:

• Website: jpbouvetmethod.com (use promo code “Freddy and Friends” for 30 days free)

• Band: Childish Japes (5 albums available)

• Social: @JPBouvet across platforms

 

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, I sit down with Nathan Todaro — an entrepreneur, actor, producer, and health and wellness advocate whose journey spans from small business hustle to Hollywood and now holistic health.

Born in Louisville, Kentucky with Sicilian roots, Nathan has worn many hats: from running a coffee shop and barbecue restaurant to selling on Amazon, before co-founding one11 Life — a wellness brand focused on ozone-infused products for healing and detoxification. He’s also acted and produced in projects like Chicago P.D., The Gift of Christmas, and most recently, Popeye the Slayer Man (2025), a B-horror slasher film now streaming on Amazon Prime.

We cover a lot of ground in this episode, including:

• His entrepreneurial journey — from coffee carts to launching one11 Life (https://www.one11life.com/)

• The science and story behind ozone-infused products and why he sees toxicity as the root of disease

• The challenges of acting post-COVID and why producing became his next creative path

• Meditation, clean water, and the daily habits that helped him overcome trauma and depression

• His candid views on dating apps, masculinity, and the role of emotional intelligence in relationships

• How travel and solo time — from Tulum to Thailand — have given him perspective and creative resets

Nathan’s story is about resilience, reinvention, and staying true to your own path, even when the world pushes you in a different direction.

Where to Find Nathan:

• Instagram: @Nathan_Todaro

• Website: https://www.one11life.com/

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, Freddy sits down with Lang Zhao. A drummer, composer, and educator whose path has taken him from Northeast China to Los Angeles.

Lang shares his story of growing up in China’s early drum scene, moving to the U.S. to study finance before fully diving into music, and how classical training shaped his rhythmic language. Together, we dive deep into the craft and philosophy of drumming,  from technique and touch to physical health, mentorship, and purpose.

We talk about:

• The rise of China’s modern drumming scene
• How studying with Matt Garstka, Rob Carson, and Mark Guiliana changed his playing
• The evolution of technique and the science of body movement
• The intersection of music, mindfulness, and meaning
• Why true mastery means balancing discipline with feel

Lang’s perspective bridges two worlds: the technical and the spiritual, offering lessons that go far beyond the drums.

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, Freddy sits down with actor, writer, musician, and filmmaker Steven Martini for a conversation that’s equal parts creative, grounded, and real.

Steven opens up about his journey from starring in Major Payne to finding his purpose as a storyteller behind the camera. The two talk about what it means to collaborate, the lessons learned from early Hollywood experiences, and how filmmaking becomes a mirror for life. Messy, unpredictable, and deeply human.

Key topics include:

• Landing his breakout role in Major Payne and navigating early Hollywood
• Why storytelling works best when it’s shared, not solo
• The creative freedom (and chaos) of independent filmmaking
• Lessons from writing, directing, and scoring his new film Bittersweet
• Finding balance between discipline, art, and enjoying life

It’s a fun, open, and inspiring conversation about creativity, collaboration, and building a meaningful body of work.

Where to Find Steven: Instagram/TikTok: @stevenmartini Film: Bittersweet - now streaming on Tubi, Prime Video, and Apple TV

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, Freddy sits down with Dirk Verbeuren, legendary drummer for Megadeth, for a conversation that goes far beyond speed and technique. They dive into the mindset, discipline, and philosophy that fuel one of the most respected players in modern metal.

From his early days with Soilwork to his evolution as Megadeth’s powerhouse drummer, Dirk shares his journey through music, health, and self-mastery. The two discuss how physical fitness, mental clarity, and emotional awareness all play equal roles in achieving true control behind the kit and in life.

Key topics include:

• The physical demands of extreme drumming and how Dirk stays healthy through plant-based living and CrossFit
• Balancing artistry and aggression in a genre often defined by speed
• Lessons learned from Dave Mustaine and life on the road with Megadeth
• Overcoming ego, embracing humility, and prioritizing self-awareness
• His work with Savage Lands, the nonprofit he co-founded for reforestation and wildlife preservation

Dirk’s perspective is as grounded as it is inspiring, a reminder that even in the most extreme forms of art, discipline and mindfulness are what make it sustainable.

Where to Find Dirk: Instagram: @dirkverbeuren YouTube: Dirk Verbeuren Nonprofit: savagelands.org

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, Freddy sits down with master drummer Tobias Ralph for a deep and honest conversation about music, discipline, and the lifelong pursuit of groove.

From playing with Adrian Belew’s Power Trio and Nena to performing at the Montreal Drum Festival, Tobias shares the stories, influences, and lessons that shaped his world-class career. The two explore the modern drumming landscape, what’s been gained through social media, and what’s been lost, and reflect on the deeper mindset behind musicianship.

Key topics include:

• The evolution from technique to taste: why simplicity is harder than speed
• Life lessons from legends like Billy Cobham, Tony Williams, and Peter Erskine
• Balancing art, humility, and mental health in a demanding industry
• Finding rhythm in everyday life, from running and property work to meditation and mindset
• Why real growth happens when you stop performing for others and start playing for yourself

Tobias’s story is a reminder that mastery isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection, purpose, and staying true to your sound.

 

Where to Find Tobias: Instagram: @tobiasralphdrummer YouTube: Tobias Ralph Facebook: Tobias Anthony Ralph

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, Freddy sits down with restaurateur and wine importer Jordan Ogron for an unfiltered conversation about hospitality, business challenges, and finding balance in a demanding industry.

From his early days as a teenage opera soloist to running some of Los Angeles’s most respected restaurants, Jordan shares stories that mix humor, humility, and hard-earned wisdom. The two dive deep into the art of service, the economics of running a restaurant in LA, and Jordan’s growing passion for Spanish and biodynamic wines through his new venture, Legacy Wine Group.

Key topics include:

• Navigating LA’s brutal restaurant landscape and dealing with post-COVID business realities

• His philosophy on leadership, including standing up for staff and creating memorable guest experiences

• The journey from fine dining to wine importing and why Spanish wines are the most underrated in the world

• Balancing work, health, and family after years in high-pressure kitchens

• His plans for upcoming wine events and expanding Legacy Wine Group nationally

Jordan’s story is equal parts resilience, creativity, and self-reflection, a reminder that hospitality is about connection, not perfection.

Where to Find Jordan:

• Instagram: @jogron2

Legacy Wine Group: coming soon (legacywinegroup.com)

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, Freddy reconnects with his longtime friend Lucas Lechuga, one of Miami’s top real estate brokers, a triathlete, bodybuilder, and entrepreneur.

Lucas shares his incredible journey from Chicago’s trading pits to building Miami Condo Investments, the #1 Miami real estate website, while balancing fitness, faith, and entrepreneurship.

Topics include:

• Losing his first career as a trader, moving to Miami, and reinventing himself in real estate

• How lawsuits, SEO mastery, and daily blogging grew his platform into a powerhouse

• His Ironman triathlon and bodybuilding journey — and lessons from discipline, TRT, and body image

• The role of church, vision boards, and consistent habits in shaping success

• Why failure should be welcomed as fuel for growth

• His upcoming mobile app project redefining real estate marketing

Lucas’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless consistency — proving that the basics, done well, can build empires.

Where to Find Lucas:

• Website: miamicondoinvestments.com
• Instagram: @miamilucas | @mciinvestments | @miamilucas.fitness

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, Freddy sits down with drummer Darren Poindexter, whose journey has taken him from a small town in Virginia to playing Saturday Night Live with one of today’s hottest artists, Shaboozey.

Darren opens up about:

• His chance meeting with Freddy on a flight, en route to SNL

• The thrill of touring with Shaboozey across major shows and festivals, from Fallon to Coachella

• How his Berklee connections and “be kind, be memorable, be nice” philosophy landed him the gig

• Growing up self-taught on drums, inspired by legends like Tony Royster, Dennis Chambers, Carter Beauford, and Teddy Campbell

• The challenges of practicing in LA, his love for Tama drums, and obsession with drum tones and mic techniques

• Why kindness, rest, and quiet time are his non-negotiables for staying grounded on the road

• His positive view of failure as a stepping stone for growth

From rural Virginia roots to the global stage, Darren’s story is all about persistence, authenticity, and passion for drumming.

Where to Find Darren:

Instagram: @dapondrums

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, Freddy welcomes his good friend Kevin Spring — celebrity stylist, cowboy, and entrepreneur — for his first-ever podcast appearance. Kevin’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and embracing unexpected opportunities.

We explore:

• How his mother’s nudge toward beauty school set him on the path to becoming a top LA stylist

• Breaking into the elite Andy LeCompte Salon with persistence, grit, and a “blunt force” approach

• Overcoming a troubled youth and alcoholism, and how sobriety gave him the clarity to grow personally and professionally

• Reconnecting with his childhood love of horses during COVID, leading to a new venture in horse syndication and competing in reining

• Life philosophies rooted in integrity, humility, and continuous learning

• How he balances celebrity hairdressing in Los Angeles with his entrepreneurial pursuits in Texas

Kevin’s story highlights the power of second chances, following your passions, and creating a life that blends artistry, business, and personal growth.

Where to Find Kevin:

• Hair: kevinspringhair.com

• Instagram: @kevin_spring_

 

In this episode of Freddy and Friends, I sit down with designer and creative force Daniel Patrick, the founder of one of Los Angeles’ most respected luxury sportswear brands.

Daniel shares the real story behind building his brand from scratch, from growing up in Sydney and walking away from rugby, to landing in LA with two suitcases and a thousand dollars, to painting an old Bronco as his first moving billboard and biking across the city just to make samples.

They dive into the evolution of the Daniel Patrick aesthetic, the shift from high-end leather goods into tees and sweats, why he still manufactures everything in LA, and how instinct, timing, and constant experimentation shaped the oversized silhouettes the brand is known for.

Whether you’re into fashion, entrepreneurship, or creative storytelling, this episode gives a rare look at what it actually takes to build a real brand with a point of view.

Topics include:

• How Daniel went from rugby in Sydney to fashion in Los Angeles
• What the early grind really looked like (biking nonstop, consignment sales, hustling without a visa)
• The Bronco billboard era and why scrappiness matters
• How the brand shifted from leather jackets to tees and sweats
• Why everything is still made in LA
• How instinct and timing created the signature DP look
• Why “overnight success” is always a decade of work
• The balance between trend, identity, and long-term design vision

If you care about creativity, craft, or the business behind clothing, this one hits home.