Ben checks in solo to share what’s new with Trip Thru Time — from prepping for Buena Vista and welcoming a baby, to shifting creative priorities and reflecting on how Pretty Lights and this community continue to shape his life.

He shouts out past guests contributing to BV, like Samso, Hyperspace Sky, and the Swirl Safe team, and invites listeners to get involved via a new voicemail line and fan-sourced video project.

Stick around to the end for two unreleased raps Ben recorded 14 years ago — a full-circle moment in an episode all about growth, gratitude, and what’s next.

From a high school sculpture class in Atlanta to nearly 100 Pretty Lights shows, Nicholas Bitzis—aka Niko Beats—takes us on a vivid journey through the highs, lows, and pivotal moments of his musical pilgrimage. He recounts his first PL show at The Masquerade in 2009 at just 14, the life-shifting sunrise set at Bonnaroo, and how Pretty Lights became a compass through wild road trips, busted vans, lost recordings, and deep personal transformation.

We dive into his time working at Miami’s Hit Factory, writing for Electric Hawk, building custom PL-inspired lamps, and witnessing legendary moments like SnowBall, the Red Rocks Symphony shows, and the final Analog Future set at BUKU. Nick shares the stories behind iconic fan memories, his evolution into a setlist documentarian, and the meaning he’s found in being part of a community that continues to inspire connection and creativity.

Recorded 5/29/2025

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Ben sits down with Jess MC — one of the original founders of the Pretty Lights Family Facebook group and a true OG in the scene since 2009. Broadcasting a lifetime of experience, Jess opens up about her deep connection to Pretty Lights’ music, the accident that nearly took her life, and how the music and community helped carry her through recovery and into a leadership role that shaped the culture of the PLF.

From discovering Pretty Lights on a road trip to photographing Derek from atop a Philly stranger’s shoulders at All Good 2011, Jess shares vivid stories that trace the evolution of the PLF and illuminators program. The episode also touches on the darker corners of the community — scams, safety issues, and the need for trust — and highlights the launch of Swirl Safe, a new initiative to protect fans during shows.

Come for the wild stories, stay for the heart: this is the story of one fan’s transformation into a leader, a healer, and a symbol of what makes the Pretty Lights family so special.

As time goes by, memories never die.

Recorded 4/22/2025