Conversations with Rich Bennett Newsletter

Brad Cox & Dan Bennett on Music, Meaning, and Making Podcasts

Published on August 27, 2025

Musician/author Brad Cox joins Rich and Dan Bennett for a fast, funny deep-dive into how songs change meaning over time—from CCR and Springsteen to Sex Pistols and System of a Down—plus why some “big name” guests don’t always drive podcast plays. They swap practical editing tips (Hindenburg, Descript, AI enhancers), talk Baltimore’s scene (Turnstile, Infinity Knives), and share how to keep a show fresh without losing your mind. If you love music, making, or meaning, this one’s packed.

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Guests Bios:

· Brad Cox — Maryland musician and songwriter, author of the series Children of the Program and a collected-lyrics book discussed on the show. He hosts/produces a live-format music podcast and continues to write, record, and perform across multiple projects.

· Dan Bennett — Music obsessive and cultural commentator (and Rich’s son) who highlights Baltimore artists and scenes, bringing sharp takes on punk, hardcore, and hip-hop throughout the episode.

Main Topics:

· How song meanings shift over time (CCR’s “Fortunate Son,” Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.,” Sex Pistols’ “God Save the Queen,” Stevie Nicks’ “Edge of Seventeen”)

· Music + politics: Tom Morello’s “all music is political,” industry vs. indie perspectives

· Practical podcast production: Hindenburg, Descript, AI audio enhancers, Opus Clip, multi-track pitfalls and echo fixes

· Live-format recording challenges (multi-guest showcases, editing load)

· Baltimore music scene: Turnstile, Trapped Under Ice, Infinity Knives & Brian Ennals; DIY ethos and crowd energy

· Why unknown guests can outperform celebrities in downloads; getting beyond the “press-tour script”

Resources mentioned:

· Brad’s Website: https://skitzocalypso.wixsite.com/bradwilliamcox

· Episode Sponsor:

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