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The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in Nashville
Real Country in Nashville and all of my content channels exist to highlight the people living the spirit of country, western, and outlaw every day. From artists to entrepreneurs, ranchers to creators, we shine a light on the ones doing life and business their own way. Expect raw conversations, stories from the road, and the soundtrack that fuels today’s modern outlaws. This isn’t your polished, radio-ready or "woke" version of country, it’s the grit, heart, and hustle that defines the culture.
The Real Country Podcast by Nikki in Nashville
The Real Country Podcast Volume 10 - Jesse Daniel & Benjamin Tod
Jesse Daniel & Benjamin Tod: Redemption Through Country Music | Real Country Podcast
In this powerful episode, two of the most respected voices in independent country music, Jesse Daniel and Benjamin Tod, sit down with me for a raw, heartfelt conversation about life, addiction, recovery, and how music (and the right relationships) gave them both a second chance.
Both artists have walked a hard road, battling addiction, homelessness, and hopelessness before turning their pain into powerful songwriting and storytelling. What emerged is a shared story of redemption and change that’s as gritty as it is inspiring to many, and a deep appreciation for the healing force of honest roots and authenticity-driven music.
We talk about their personal journeys, how they got clean, how they create through the struggle, and the cost of staying true in a music world that often prefers the polished over the real.
✨ Jesse Daniel is a California native, fusing the sounds of Bakersfield Honky Tonk and Country Rock into his music. His live performances are not to miss, and he just released his album 'Son of the San Lorenzo', which is a must-listen.
✨Benjamin Tod has been writing and performing for years. From busking in the streets to playing sold-out shows, the front man for the Lost Dog Street Band is a beacon of hope to many. He's working on multiple new projects, with a new single to drop on July 11th.
🛠️ Topics Covered:
• Addiction and the moment they hit bottom
• How music pulled them through
• Life on the road post-recovery and their non-negotiable routines
• The pressure of staying clean in the spotlight
• What they wish more people knew about addiction
• Advice to those who are just starting their journeys
• Upcoming projects and new music
🔔 Don’t forget to rate and subscribe for more music and interviews from The Real Country Podcast...your home for the more traditional country music of today, that radio seems to leave behind.
Thanks for listening! Tune in every week when we release new episodes discussing new music, chatting with artists, and all things country.