Home Podcasts Mixtape Hope

Mixtape Hope

Drs. Luis and Andrea Espinoza 45 Episodes Aug 2, 2026

Luis and Andrea Espinoza, both physicians, host an interactive podcast exploring music as a healing force. They interview musicians, songwriters, producers, and festival hosts, breaking down lyrics and the emotions behind songs. They also share personal stories about how music has shaped their lives as parents, siblings, and a married couple. The show digs into the 'why' and 'how' of music's therapeutic power.

Episodes

James Juneau Aug 2, 2026 2413 We introduce Mr. James Juneau. A generational New Orleans native, James arrives to share both wisdom and his musical prowess. James shares his journey through finding the violin and working at his craft daily. Less of a “hobby” but rather a discipline, he notes that playing violin has awakened an ability to “clear the clutter” in the mind…which we all need. James shares the familial impact of hear

Amanda Shaw-After Katrina Aug 28, 2025 2756 How much can you hold? 20 years’ worth of memories? What would you do if there were lyrics to express what we, as native New Orleanians, have lived for the past 20 years…after Katrina. Listen in.We sit with the phenomenal Amanda Shaw as she shares stories, dreams and her mission to bring JOY through her talented voice and fiddle!She encourages us to sit back, kick off our shoes and be AT HOME wher

Musicians On Call Jun 29, 2025 3054 MUSICIANS ON CALL truly lives its purpose. Having touched the lives of over 1.2 million patients, they continue to want to do more.In 1999, Co-Founders and entrepreneurs, Michael Solomon and Vivek J. Tiwary, decided to prescribe healing through music.This episode sparks conversation about the importance of community and the power of compassion through composition. Their Vision: "A world fille

Thea Aksland & Nelson Capote Apr 24, 2025 3057 Navigating our "origin stories" while finding those along this path who compliment the journey is a creative endeavor in and of itself. Trusting the process of musical production and the "business" of music is eloquently shared by Thea Aksland and Nelson Capote.Thea Aksland is a DYNAMIC young artist who has found that compliment in Nelson Capote. Capote is a prolific multi-ins

A Body of Water by Kelley Girod Feb 26, 2025 2583 KELLEY GIROD A native of Louisiana, Girod has lived in NYC since 2005 where she completed her Masters in playwriting at Columbia University. Since graduating she has established herself in NYC as a playwright and producer. Girod is currently Director of New Work at the world famous Apollo theater. In addition Kelley continues to serve as Executive Director of OBIE award winning The Fire This Ti

Jeff Lane Dec 18, 2024 2427 "It all begins at home" Wise words from the man, musician, and mentor in our community. Also known as "Sir Devon Nooner" from The Molly Ringwalds, Jeff Lane sits with us to share his origin story-where it all began. His genuine reflection of the power of music in shaping who and how we love, the peace we all hope for, and of course, his journey into rock 'n' roll will

Conner McCready May 3, 2024 2730 From Cleveland to the Crescent City...Conner McCready brings a unique vision, style and talent to his music and art!His energy in performing, love of learning, and tenacity in teaching music is inspiring!It is rare to sit someone who can navigate the SCIENCE and the WHY of music so eloquently. His depth of musical knowledge makes it easy to see what continues to motivate his passion and gift of mu

Shawan Rice Feb 7, 2024 3108 It was “just a feeling” that brought this Pennsylvania native to New Orleans and this city is blessed to have kept her!On the heels of her latest album “Fever Dreams” (2023), Shawan Rice is on fire! Her calm exudes wisdom and musically she is talented well beyond her years. Her music will hold you, inspire you and teach you. She is a poet, a scholar, a producer, vocalist and all around genuine

Chuck Credo IV Sep 26, 2023 2479 Believe.Believe in something and you will often find your purpose. Chuck Credo IV does just that. The legendary musician, songwriter, producer, entertainer, podcaster, manager and community leader believes in MUSIC and the city that raised him. We sit down with Mr. Credo IV and enjoy the stories and the fuel that has sparked his passion for supporting other artists and entertainers even as he keep

Veronica and Victoria Corcoran - AVP Volleyball Aug 21, 2023 2094 When Veronica and Victoria Corcoran hit the sand, the ACE they delivery is the strength of will and determination in "doing the work" it takes to become champions.The AVP (Association of Volleyball Professionals) lit up the sand here in New Orleans this past April. We were able to catch up with The Corcoran twins as they shared stories of times during their phenomenal college career her

Season 4, INTRO-"LOCAL LOVE" Aug 21, 2023 46 SEASON 4!"LOCAL LOVE"GRATITUDE as we welcome another season of storytellers and artists being REAL. As we continue to learn, music truly unites us all! It inspires HOPE in ways that no other prescription can.We say "thank you" to those who have sat with us, those who have given their time and love as we look forward to sharing more with YOU!Turn up the volume and adjust the sp

Sol Pereyra May 22, 2023 1544 We had the opportunity to interview internacional award winning musician Sol Pereyra. An accomplished musician, artist, and director, Sol brings her passion for life and laughter to our Mixtape Hope episode while in Argentina preparing for the launch of her sixth album entitled 'La Pelicula'.She splits her time living between Argentina and Mexico City, Mexico and is always on the move sp

The Revivalists’ David Shaw Apr 25, 2023 2173 David Shaw takes some time out of the busy life of music, songwriting, producing, performing, preparing for a tour and much more to just BE in the NOW. His career with The Revivalists as well as a solo album released in 2020-2021 has been a journey which continues to inspire and motivate! Making New Orleans his home, David continues to plant seeds reflecting his passion for music, creativity, sel

Louis Ford Jr. - Preservation Hall Apr 18, 2023 2922 From his days of having a “hall pass” to play with Dr. Lorraine Wilson as a child to bringing LIFE and MUSIC to Preservation Hall, Mr. Louis Ford embodies so much of “What it Means to Love New Orleans”. He shares with us what it meant to sit next to THE legendary Mr. Clarence Ford (his father) and play and record music-while realizing his genetic calling to serve this profession. Mr. Ford teaches,

Veronica Calliet-Cracking the Code on Dementia Apr 4, 2023 3521 As the lyrics go…“Joy will come in the morning, listen y’all”… There is a longing for both peace and understanding when we step into the diagnosis of dementia. We are joined by Ms. Veronica Calliet as she so candidly does what she does best…teaches. She shares with us her experience as a caregiver for someone suffering with dementia. She has focused her light throughout her life personally and pr

Melissa McCracken - Synesthesia Blue Gallery Mar 14, 2023 1881 If you closed your eyes as you listened to one of your favorite songs, what would you see? A memory? The dance of shadow, light and color? Melissa McCracken can not only tell you-she SHOWS the world her gift. In discovering her gift of SYNESTHESIA, she has been on a personal journey beautifully documenting HOW she hears sound. She is an accomplished, truly unique, brilliant artist who will leave

Ryan Guldemond-GLDMTH Jan 31, 2023 2711 Being present. Honoring the opportunity to be alive.Cortisol and the communion with nature.Photo Walks and Family. Breaking down walls-sometimes with the beauty of a hug. Knowing and stepping INTO our triggers. Ryan Guldemond of MOTHER MOTHER sits with us in a very personal interview to breakdown his solo album-GLDMTH. A unique blending of senses and expression, this album is a MUST. Every track

Big Sam's Funky Nation - Grammy Award Winner Dec 28, 2022 2364 Big Sam Williams of Big Sam’s Funky Nation embodies pure energy as he sits down with us to share his journey as a musician. There is a natural ease and eagerness to pull in his audience and motivate others to move! If you haven’t seen Big Sam’s Funky Nation live-you are missing out on a true musical HEALING! Listen as we speak to a New Orleans legend who has shared his talent with the world-and i

Roberto S. Matthews - New Orleans Director of Liturgical Music Oct 24, 2022 2750 A mathematician and a musician.We had the pleasure of sitting in studio with Mr. Roberto Matthews. His “moment” which launched his career as a musician was as vivid a calling as is his faith. Listen in…this Jesuit grad will both educate and inspire you! His voice and talent on multiple instruments is simply beautiful. His purpose and passion for his “why”is beyond moving…Check Roberto out at a se

Dave And Sandy Furano - Rock 'n' Roll concert promoter, Rock&Brews Founder Aug 22, 2022 3135 SEASON 3!Rarely do stories come through with as much passion and charm as in this interview! What an amazing couple we share time with-Sandy and Dave Furano open up about their life in music and the business of musical healing.From the legendary Winterland venue in San Francisco, the stories of the early days on the road with bands, the advent of the concert “merch” industry and SO much more, wit

Big Freedia Jul 18, 2022 1196 Big Freedia!Synonymous with charm, creativity, energy and BOUNCE.Big Freedia shared with us her journey beginning in gospel music. Like a mustard seed growing beyond limitations, she fueled her passion for growth with family, faith and community!Singer-song writer, producer, entrepreneur, activist, entertainer, creator, influencer, chef and much more, it’s difficult to imagine how she does it all

Paul Rogers - Acclaimed Jazzfest Poster illustrator and visionary Jul 6, 2022 2225 Paul Rogers has captured our hearts in this episode as he reflects on his contributions to our beloved Jazzfest! More than that, he brings us down memory lane so gracefully recalling the ART behind the music. Look around your home or place of work, you likely own one of these cherished pieces…and if you don’t, you should. Check him out but first sit back and listen to the jazzy music history he dr

Bill Rayner - Professor in the Music Performance Dept at NYU Jun 21, 2022 2036 Bill Rayner, Friends call him “Billy Rock” and his students call him professor! We have the privilege of speaking to someone who has TRULY made music his life! Teaching, composing, playing and performing music embodies all that he loves.So relatable and wise, NYU students look forward to his classes! We find out why! Check him out! Gallatin.nyu.edu

Warren Zeiders Jun 6, 2022 1906 We sit down with Warren Zeiders as he takes us to the open field. His explosion onto the music scene has truly been like LIGHTNING!Listen to what anchors him, what motivates him and how he overcame the unforeseen transition from athlete to artist. As he prepares for his tour “”717 Tapes” Tour, he reflects on being REAL and RELATABLE-and enjoying the ride!

The Walters May 19, 2022 1880 Gratitude and Joy… sentiments that reflect the the emotions of lyrics, melodies and magic of a band coming together to create beautiful music and memories. The Walters’ revival has been a journey of looking back but being so grateful for the NOW. We speak with Luke Olson of The Walters. He takes us through where he has been personally and the unbelievable new journey of this incredible band!WE are

The Better Together Band- Dr. Dre, Dr. E, Admiral McCormack, and S. Hawkins May 2, 2022 3430 Life and Music.Where we start and those we find along this journey matter. Leaning on each other as we walk this path, the lyrics, the melody and the rhythm bring us together.The Better Together Band is in studio listening to each other and sharing our journey with YOU.We open up about OUR HEALING and OUR WHY in being vulnerable putting in the time, having fun, coming together and sharing our tal

Tyron Benoit Apr 18, 2022 2013 You can write it in lyrics but LOVE is meant to be LIVED. This week’s guest, Tyron Benoit defines himself as “Marine, actor, guitarist, keyboardist, accordion player, singer, and songwriter”. And he lives the love he wishes to share. Listen how he serves and steps into his purpose as a father, husband, son and performer daily-bringing joy to our community near and far. We are elated to share this

Javier Olondo Apr 4, 2022 1681 When life, talent and passion truly harmonize, that is where you find purpose. Javier Olondo shares all of it with so many here in New Orleans as well as around the world!His talent as a musician and performer is grounded in family and community.Listen as we speak to such an amazing human as he energizes this episode and shares what truly drives him. Asheson, his band is only one of the many many

Atomic!!! Mar 22, 2022 1720 Love. It is a powerful energy. It is ATOMIC. We had the pleasure of speaking to the band ATOMIC all the way from Germany. Their music, their mission and their energy is electric! Hear how this band took its musical influences and roots and has grown a genre and a following unique to their amazing talent! “Gimme your love”, their latest single will keep you rocking!!Check them out !!@atomicaner Lis

John Blancher, Founder of Rock N’ Bowl Mar 7, 2022 3556 Step into a bit of New Orleans history with the visionary, entrepreneur, teacher, father, storyteller, musician, husband and all things bowling and music! Listen to his journey through and IN his faith as he shares the how and the WHY of Rock N’ Bowl’s birth and longevity.John Blancher’s voice and stories are as smooth as the bowling lanes that so many have enjoyed here in the big easy. The memori

Anaïs St. John Feb 21, 2022 2079 Anais St. John sits down and shares her passion for this city, it’s music and charm. A brilliant teacher, a soulful spirit and a smile that makes you feel as though you have known her for a lifetime, we all should be students of this edutainor!Special thanks to the magnificent Anais St. John for her grace and giving to our city’s youth and to our nostalgia.She is a New Orleans legend worth seeing

Martha Redbone Feb 7, 2022 3178 Season 2 kicks off with the multitalented Martha Redbone!!The conversation flows as smoothly as her music permeates our hearts.Martha shares her personal experiences growing up and finding herself in music. She embodies and exudes humanism in a way that we all need to hear…and feel.She is a musician, composer, teacher, mother, wife, friend, entertainer, storyteller and so much more. Her roots to

CR Gruver- New Orleans School of Rock Jan 24, 2022 1745 CR Gruver brings an “all in” energy to what he knows and loves-MUSIC!His passion for teaching and sharing his talent with his family and community has facilitated his own School of Rock location here in New Orleans, Louisiana. All ages, all skill levels and every walk of life can come and connect with their own groove at School of Rock.And that’s just his day job! CR Gruver brings the keys to The

Chris Beary-A Man on a Mission-bringing healing to the hungry and music to our community! Jan 10, 2022 2001 Chris Beary’s life reflects the values that you hope for in any true leader! His humble service to so many in our community is a testament to his integrity, commitment and faith. Listen as we hear how HIS vision to help foster community awareness and support for local musicians through The Funky Uncle unlocked the human spirit even when we found ourselves quarantined. An activist, entrepreneur, p

Make Music NOLA Dec 27, 2021 1913 Dr. E. and Dr. Dre talk with Laura Patterson of Make Music NOLA. This local non profit in the heart of Treme has weathered the pandemic and so many odds and is thriving!Bringing music to children in a way that connects to the community is the focus and passion of all of the talented musicians and instructors at Make Music NOLA.makemusicnola.orgThe aftermath of Katrina has revealed beautiful storie

Ty Henderson Dec 13, 2021 2577 The Drs chat with musician, entrepreneur, musical director, software guru and gift to NOLA …Ty Henderson. He shares his journey to New Orleans, the community he now calls home here and the organization NOLAarts that he is MOST proud of. His new home has brought he and his talent to the community of St. John Lutheran Church. His passion and energy in sharing the gift of music with others… young and

Patrick Droney Nov 29, 2021 1976 Dr. E and Dr. Dre sit down to unpack the phenomenal new album “State of the Heart” by the unbelievably talented Patrick Droney! He weaves together 20 songs on this album that will take you through all of the emotions and moments you didn’t even know you needed to explore. Listen as he speaks so genuinely about the meaning behind the music, family, producing, songwriting and more. Wise beyond his y

Jaune Buisson Hebert- Metropolitan Dance Theater Nov 22, 2021 1953 The Doctors speak with Jaune Buisson Hebert of Metropolitan Dance Theater of New Orleans about family and generational appreciation for the arts. Listen as she beaks down the many counts that make her who she is-the dynamic, empowering and inspiring professional dance instructor and founder of MDTNO! She speaks about faith, family and living her dream in bringing the the SPIRIT of motion through

Gabrielle Grace - We'll Be Alright Nov 15, 2021 2398 Drs E. and Dre sit down with Nashville based singer songwriter artist Gabrielle Grace to discuss inspiration, blessings, growing up and her songs “221” and "We'll Be Alright". Gabrielle dives into her passion and purpose in this world of music and reminds us all to “slow down” and just be in this moment. She has a genuine spirit that will leave you feeling lighter-especially when s

Peter Spirer - Feel Rich: Health Is The New Wealth Oct 29, 2021 3022 Drs E and Dre sit down with Peter Spirer, director of the film Feel Rich: Health Is The New Wealth. In a climate of greater social consciousness in how we interact with others and our planet, the Espinozas have leaned into a greater responsibility to their patients. Using tools and cues from mainstream media, they hope to share greater knowledge and awareness regarding TRUE HEALTH and HEALING. Th

Speech of Arrested Development Oct 5, 2021 1659 Finally!! Dr. E and Dr Dre make their return after nearly a month due to Hurricane Ida. Join the doctors as they talk with Speech from the Grammy Award winning music group Arrested Development.

Jared Zeller of Bayou Boogaloo Aug 12, 2021 1468 Dr. Dre and Dr. E. sit down wit Jared Zeller, founder of the Bayou Boogaloo Music Festival, to talk about the importance of live music.

Mother Mother Jul 20, 2021 1993 Dr. Dre sits down with Ryan Guldemond of the band Mother Mother to discuss inspiration, motivation and the song "Forgotten Souls" from the band's new album Inside.

Mike Mains and The Branches Jul 7, 2021 1508 Join Dr. Dre as she has an in-depth conversation with Mike Mains of Mike Mains and The Branches on music, mental health and the hit song "Around the Corner".Produced by John Girod

Welcome to Mixtape Hope! Jul 6, 2021 61 Dr. E. and Dr. Dre invite you to join their journey of stories, interviews and musings exploring the healing powers of music and the sounds that define the moments of our lives.

Mixtape Hope

Episodes

Recommended