Chalk Dinosaur Podcast

The newest Chalk Dinosaur album, Potential Energy - featuring the Chalk Dinosaur Ensemble, is now available! In this episode I sit with drummer Nick O'Hallaron, bassist Michael Berger, and guitarist Jon Henderson to talk about the creative and recording process. After the conclusion of the discussion is an improv jam session (52:30).

Details about the process and backstory of the newest album, "Pocket Quest", now available. It's a solo funk inspired collection of songs and features several of my favorite musicians I've met over the years. 

This is the first of two full length albums to be released this summer. The second full length album, featuring the Chalk Dinosaur Ensemble, will be released on July 22nd, 2026. 

Update on the upcoming album featuring the 4 piece Chalk Dinosaur Ensemble. The recording, editing and mixing are done. I just received the first round of masters back and in the process of checking those. I reflect on the album and then take a philosophical dive into the subject of finishing music, offering my perspective on the best practices I've found for that difficult step of the process.

Thoughts on seeking feedback, critiques, and opinions with your art. TLDR: Don't

Talking about the blizzard of 2026 and preparations for Jam Cruise. 

Thoughts on mindset, fitness, creativity, and relaxing.

Thoughts from inside a sauna.

Rambling on about microphones for 18 minutes before getting to the point of the episode which is to talk about the new song that was just released, "Foggy Memory". This song was a collaboration with Zack Wiesinger. You can find him as either his full name, Guitar Zack, or his band Misaligned Mind.

Recapping the recording session of the new Chalk Dinosaur Ensemble album. Also answering leftover Q&A from listeners. 

Answering questions submitted by our listeners. Questions touch on career dynamics & nuts and bolts creative process. Thanks for your participation!

Shootin' the breeze with Tim. Talking sports and touching on the freshly recorded album

This episode I'm joined again by brother and drummer Nick O'Hallaron in a conversation led by longtime friend and listener Tim Zahren.

This episode I'm joined by my brother Nick and friend Tim Zahren. 

My perspective on songwriting and some of the things that work for me.

Discussion led by long time friend and listener, Tim Zahren, who leverages his perspective as a listener to stimulate discourse. 

Sharing an update on the progress of the upcoming album featuring the Chalk Dinosaur Ensemble

Detailing the recently released remix that I made of a song called "Situationship" by the Chicago funk soul band Hot Like Mars.

Talking about the ways I'm trying to remove resistance and make the touring life balance easier. I abstained from alcohol the first 5 weeks of the year and have also made some investments in additional gear that will help make the transition from shows to studio easier.

Looking back at 2024, and forward to 2025 and beyond.