Get ready to dive into the world of new music and heartfelt conversations, because today’s episode of Kyle Meredith With is a double treat you won’t want to miss! But here’s where it gets even more exciting: we’re taking you backstage at this year’s Bourbon & Beyond Festival for intimate chats with two incredible acts—Mary Chapin Carpenter and Trampled by Turtles’ Erik Berry. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering their work, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and a few surprises that’ll keep you hooked. Listen now via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Podcasts, or your favorite platform here.
First up, Mary Chapin Carpenter opens up about her latest album, Personal History, a labor of love nearly five years in the making. The five-time Grammy winner shares how she’s mastered the art of blending literary depth with plainspoken honesty—a signature style she’s honed since her late-’80s breakout. And this is the part most people miss: Carpenter reveals why this album feels more personal than ever. “At this point in my life,” she admits, “I can’t hide behind it anymore.”
What makes Personal History truly unique? The songs don’t follow a linear timeline; instead, they flow like memories, reflecting Carpenter’s belief that time itself is fluid. She even laughs about her recurring coffee references (yes, she’s a coffee enthusiast) and shares how her track “A Girl and Her Dog” has resonated far beyond its title. “It’s not just about girls and their dogs,” she explains. “It’s about the universal bond between humans and their furry companions—dogs truly make life worth living.”
Here’s where it gets controversial: Carpenter credits producer Josh Kaufman (of Bonny Light Horseman fame) for shaping the album’s sound, but she also hints at how their earlier collaboration with Scottish musicians Julie Fowlis and Karine Polwart, Looking for the Thread, influenced her approach. “Working with Josh is a dream,” she says. “But let’s be real—Bonny Light Horseman is one of the coolest bands out there right now.” Is Carpenter playing favorites? You decide.
Later in the episode, Erik Berry of Trampled by Turtles joins Kyle to discuss their collaborative album with Low frontman Alan Sparhawk. And this is the part that’ll spark debate: Berry reveals how Low’s early success in Duluth inspired Trampled by Turtles to forge their own path. “They showed us how to do things our way,” he says. But with both bands’ busy schedules, live shows are rare—making each performance feel like a once-in-a-lifetime event. “We’re not going to tour this album properly,” Berry admits, “so when we do play, it’s something special.”
Want to catch Trampled by Turtles live? They’ve got two upcoming shows: December 11th in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and March 29th, 2026, at the Big Ears Festival in Knoxville, Tennessee. Grab your tickets here before they’re gone!
So, what do you think? Is Mary Chapin Carpenter’s Personal History her most vulnerable work yet? And does Trampled by Turtles’ collaboration with Alan Sparhawk live up to the hype? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your thoughts! Don’t forget to listen to the full episode above or watch the video below, and stay updated on all things Kyle Meredith With by following the show on your favorite podcast platform here. Plus, explore the entire Consequence Podcast Network here for more great content.
