Episode 22 of Behind The Kit features a conversation I’ve been incredibly excited to share — sitting down backstage with the one and only @ArtCruzDrums !Known for his ferocious power, precision, and relentless intensity behind the kit, Art is the drummer for @lambofgodofficial and one of the most respected players in modern metal. From his early days with Winds Of Plague to stepping into one of the most iconic bands in heavy music, Art has built a career defined by passion, perseverance, and an unmistakable playing style.In this conversation, we dive into Lamb of God’s brand new album, Into Oblivion — the record Art says he is most proud of to date. We talk about what made this album different and how approaching the record with a completely fresh perspective allowed him to create some of his most authentic work yet.We also discuss the experience of stepping into a band with such a massive legacy, the pressure and responsibility that comes with that role, and the moment Art truly felt like he belonged in Lamb of God.This episode goes beyond drums and technique. We talk about growth, identity, creativity, and the mindset it takes to continue evolving at the highest level. Art also opens up about how becoming sober impacted both his life and his approach to creating Into Oblivion, making this one of the most personal and meaningful conversations I’ve had for Behind The Kit.What makes this episode even more special to me is that Art and I actually played a show together back in 2008 when my band opened for Winds of Plague. Nearly 18 years later, reconnecting backstage in Phoenix for this conversation feels incredibly full circle.Season 2 continues with honest, powerful conversations like this one, and I’m beyond grateful to share Art’s story with the Behind The Kit community.Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

Episode 21 of Behind The Kit is one I’ve been incredibly excited to share — a VERY special conversation with the team behind Drumeo.

In this episode, I sit down with Domino Santantonio, Jared Falk, and Brandon Toews — three people who have helped shape one of the most impactful platforms in the drumming world today.

Drumeo has become a global hub for drummers of all levels, known for its world-class education, iconic collaborations, and its ability to bring the drumming community together in a way that’s never been done before. From viral “drummer hears song for the first time” videos to in-depth lessons with some of the greatest players on the planet, their influence on modern drumming is undeniable.

In this conversation, we go behind the scenes of Drumeo — how it all started, the vision behind the platform, and what it takes to consistently create content that inspires millions of drummers around the world. We talk about creativity, consistency, building something meaningful, and the responsibility that comes with shaping the next generation of musicians.

This episode isn’t just about drumming — it’s about passion, innovation, and the power of building something bigger than yourself.

Season 2 continues to grow through conversations like this, and I’m beyond grateful to share this one with the Behind The Kit community.

Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

Episode 20 of Behind The Kit features a conversation I’ve been incredibly excited to share — sitting down with the one and only Matt Greiner!

Known for his explosive precision, relentless endurance, and deeply intentional musicianship, Matt is the driving force behind @augustburnsred — one of the most respected and enduring bands in modern metal. For over two decades, he has helped shape the band’s sound with blistering speed, intricate phrasing, dynamic control, and a level of consistency that has earned global respect across the heavy music world.

In this conversation, we dive into Matt’s journey behind the kit — from building August Burns Red from the ground up to sustaining longevity in one of the most physically demanding genres in music. We talk about discipline, faith, creative process, evolution as a player, maintaining excellence on tour, and what it truly takes to stay sharp in a band that never plays it safe.

This episode isn’t just about speed and technicality — it’s about intentional growth, resilience, and the mindset required to remain elite year after year in an industry that constantly shifts.

Season 2 continues to grow through honest, powerful conversations like this one, and I’m beyond grateful to bring Matt’s story to the Behind The Kit community.

Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

Episode 19 of Behind The Kit features a conversation I’ve been incredibly excited to share — sitting down with the one and only Nikki Glaspie!Known for her undeniable groove, fearless musicality, and commanding presence behind the drums, Nikki has performed with global icons like @beyonce , helped shape the sound of @thenthpowermusic and brought her signature feel to projects including @snarkypuppy and countless others. Her playing blends deep pocket, raw power, and spiritual intensity in a way that is instantly recognizable.In this conversation, we dive into Nikki’s journey behind the kit — from locking in on the world’s biggest stages to building her own musical movement. We talk about identity, musical responsibility, feel versus flash, leadership within a band, and what it truly means to serve the music at the highest level.This episode isn’t just about gigs and accolades — it’s about conviction, authenticity, and having the courage to carve your own lane in an industry that constantly tests you.Season 2 continues to grow through honest, powerful conversations like this one, and I’m beyond grateful to bring Nikki’s story to the Behind The Kit community.Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

Episode 18 of Behind The Kit features a conversation I’ve been looking forward to for a long time — sitting down with ⁨@BenAndersonDrums⁩ , the powerhouse drummer behind ⁨@NothingMoremusic⁩ .Known for his explosive energy, precision, and unmistakable feel, Ben has helped shape the sound and live intensity of one of modern rock’s most dynamic bands. From massive tours and festival stages to deeply intentional songwriting and performance, Ben’s approach to drumming is equal parts physical, emotional, and disciplined.In this conversation, we dive into Ben’s journey behind the kit — how he developed his voice as a drummer, the demands of performing at the highest level in a heavy rock band, and what it takes to maintain consistency, longevity, and authenticity in a fast-moving industry. We talk about preparation, endurance, mindset, musical chemistry, and the responsibility that comes with serving the song night after night.This episode isn’t just about power and chops — it’s about control, intention, and showing up fully for the music and the people around you.Season 2 continues to build with meaningful conversations like this one, and I’m incredibly grateful to share these stories with you.Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

Season 2 of Behind The Kit continues with a conversation that goes far beyond drums — Episode 2 features @SarahHaganBackstage , one of the most respected and influential figures in the modern drum community.Sarah is best known for her work in Artist Relations, most notably as the longtime Head of Artist Relations at @ZildjianCompany where she helped shape careers, foster meaningful artist relationships, and bridge the gap between musicians, innovation, and legacy. She has also played a pivotal role at @MusoraOfficial , @DrumeoOfficial , @GibraltarHardware , @PercussiveArtsSociety , and @SJCCustomDrums continuing her mission of education, advocacy, and community-building within the drumming world.But titles only tell part of the story. Sarah has become a trusted voice and constant source of support for countless drummers — advocating for artists, championing creativity, and helping musicians navigate the often unseen side of the music industry with honesty and integrity.In this conversation, we dive into Sarah’s journey, her philosophy on artist relations, and what it truly means to support artists in a sustainable and human way. We talk about career longevity, communication, trust, and how meaningful relationships are built — not just between brands and artists, but within the drum community as a whole.This episode isn’t about chops or gear — it’s about people, purpose, and the impact one person can have behind the scenes when they genuinely care about the artists they serve.Season 2 is already shaping up to be something really special, and this conversation sets the tone in a powerful way.Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

Episode 16 of Behind The Kit marks the official launch of Season 2 — and I couldn’t imagine a better way to kick things off than sitting down with one of my favorite drummers on the planet, Madden Klass.A Berklee College of Music graduate with an incredible résumé, Madden has performed with artists like Chappell Roan, boygenius, and Nat and Alex Wolff, while carving out a career defined by feel, musicality, and absolute professionalism. Beyond the credits, Madden is a drummer with deep intention — someone who brings emotion, creativity, and purpose to every note she plays. In this conversation, we dive into Madden’s journey as a drummer, her approach to feel and composition, and what it truly takes to build and sustain a career at the highest level of the music industry. We talk about preparation, adaptability, artistic identity, and the mindset required to show up consistently as a professional — even when the path isn’t always clear.This episode isn’t just about chops or touring credits — it’s about artistry, discipline, and trusting your voice as a musician. Season 2 is officially underway, with more incredible conversations already recorded and even more on the horizon — and if this episode is any indication, this season is going to be something really special.Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting this series. 🥁🖤

Episode 15 of Behind The Kit marks a huge milestone — not only is this our final episode of 2025, but it also closes out Season 1 of the series.This season has been nothing short of incredible, and I couldn’t think of a better way to wrap it up than sitting down with ⁨@MIKESLEATH⁩ — a drummer whose journey, perspective, and experience embody exactly what Behind The Kit is all about.Throughout this conversation, Mike opens up about his path as a drummer, the realities of building a sustainable career in music, and the lessons learned along the way — both behind the kit and beyond it. We dive into mindset, preparation, growth, and what it truly takes to stay committed to your craft in an ever-changing industry. Playing with incredible artists like ⁨@MileyCyrus⁩ , ⁨@camilacabello⁩ , and being the drummer for ⁨@shawnmendes⁩ , Mike is no stranger to performing at the highest level.This episode isn’t just about drums — it’s about perseverance, adaptability, and trusting the process when the road ahead isn’t always clear. Mike’s story offers insight and encouragement for drummers and creatives at every stage of their journey.As Season 1 comes to a close, I want to sincerely thank every single person who watched, listened, commented, shared, and supported this series — and of course, every guest who gave their time, honesty, and expertise to help inspire this community. None of this exists without you.Season 2 is already in motion, with incredible conversations recorded and even more on the calendar — and I truly can’t wait to share what’s coming next.Thank you for being part of this journey. 🥁🖤