real food rules songwriting podcast
Thanks to Tim Bruno of Radio Chatskills (WJFF) for helping us to get the word out about STEAM Fund’s Real Food Rules Songwriting Podcast. We have released two of seven videos which include original songs written by the 6th graders at Liberty Middle School with the guidance of our teaching artists Beth and Scott Bierko. Two videos have been released so far and the remaining videos will be released every Monday through February 23, 2026.
full steam ahead - the podcast
Full STEAM Ahead is a new podcast series dedicated to uplifting and celebrating musicians, artists, and the venues that bring their work to life. Hosted by former radio personality and long-time friend Michelle Semerano joined by STEAM Fund co-founders Gary and Judy Siegel, the series aims to highlight powerful personal stories, promote upcoming performances, and shine a light on the creative heartbeat of our community. Full STEAM Ahead is streaming now on YouTube or available wherever you get your podcasts —with new episodes dropping weekly.
episode #1
Hostess Michelle Semerano talks with co-founders Gary and Judy Siegel about the story behind the STEAM Fund, how their passion for music and community service led to a mission of supporting musicians and artists, funding creative initiatives, and empowering local music programs. Perfect for listeners interested in supporting musicians and artists, music philanthropy, arts funding, and community programs, this premiere episode of Full STEAM Ahead showcases the STEAM Fund’s inspiring efforts to empower musicians, artists, and creative communities.
episode #2
Perfect for listeners interested in jazz, creative music, musicians, music education, and music philanthropy, this episode of Full STEAM Ahead features hostess Michelle Semerano sitting down with legendary jazz drummer, composer, and educator Thurman Barker sharing his extraordinary musical journey. From his Chicago roots immersed in R&B, blues, and jazz, to performing with icons like Marvin Gaye and Cecil Taylor, Thurman reflects on rhythm, improvisation, resilience, and his decades-long impact on the world of music. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz enthusiast or discovering Thurman’s music for the first time, this episode offers an intimate look at innovation, legacy, and the evolution of creative music.
episode #3
Perfect for fans of songwriting, musicians, creative music, folk rock, and storytelling, this episode of Full STEAM Ahead brings together STEAM Fund co-founders Gary and Judy Siegel with Joziah Longo, visionary frontman of the Slambovian Circus of Dreams. From his early days performing Dylan covers in Philadelphia to gracing stages like CBGB’s and Carnegie Hall, Joziah shares his journey through rhythm, theatre, and imagination. The conversation explores the art of songwriting, the stories behind projects like The Book of Better Things and the beloved Slambovian Christmas Show, and a glimpse into the band’s upcoming studio album. More than a conversation about music, this episode celebrates creativity, community, and music philanthropy — revealing what it means to live with music at the heart of everything you do.
episode #4
Perfect for fans of musicians, live music, music legacy, Woodstock NY, and music philanthropy, this episode of Full STEAM Ahead features a heartfelt conversation with Barbara O’Brien, Levon Helm’s longtime manager and the driving force behind the legendary Midnight Rambles at his home in Woodstock. Co-hosts Gary and Judy Siegel explore Barbara’s incredible journey — from the early days of the Rambles to her stewardship of Levon Helm Studios — and how she helped keep Levon’s music, spirit, and community alive. Barbara shares personal stories of collaboration, creativity, and resilience that reveal the heart behind one of America’s most cherished musical traditions. A moving tribute to Levon Helm, this episode celebrates the enduring power of community, generosity, and the love of live music.
episode #5
Perfect for fans of folk musicians, music philanthropy, songwriting, and community music programs, this episode of Full STEAM Ahead welcomes husband-and-wife duo The Levins. Ira and Julia share their journey from open-mic nights in California to performing around the world, blending music, faith, and social consciousness into their harmony-driven sound. Co-hosts Gary and Judy Siegel explore how The Levins use music to uplift, heal, and connect communities, the creative process behind their new album An Alternate Refrain, and the intergenerational programs they lead in schools and families. Through personal stories and reflections, listeners gain insight into the power of music, partnership, and compassion. A celebration of folk music, collaboration, and the transformative impact of art, this episode shines a light on music’s ability to bridge cultures and generations.
episode #6
In this blues- and soul-driven episode of Full STEAM Ahead, Gary and Judy Siegel sit down with internationally acclaimed blues artist Slam Allen to explore how music becomes soul, spirit, and connection. From his roots in the family legacy of The Allen Brothers to leading the band for the legendary James Cotton, Slam shares a life shaped by rhythm, resilience, and purpose. Blending the fire of James Brown, the soul of Otis Redding, and the guitar mastery of B.B. King, Slam reveals how he delivers more than music—he delivers joy and unity. This episode dives into his creative process, his philosophy of universal connection, and his mission to spread love through the power of the blues.
episode #7
Perfect for listeners interested in songwriting, musicians, creative community, folk music, and artistic legacy, this deeply personal episode of Full STEAM Ahead features singer-songwriter, producer, and community builder Miranda Hardy. For co-hosts Gary and Judy Siegel, this conversation comes full circle—Miranda grew up just down the street in Liberty, New York, spent many of her formative years in their home, and is one of their daughter Georgia’s closest friends. The daughter of legendary folk musician and Fast Folk founder Jack Hardy, and acclaimed radio host and Folk Alliance Hall of Famer Angela Page, Miranda shares her journey from a successful decade-long career in advertising back to music. A moving conversation about music, legacy, friendship, and finding your voice.