The Third Story podcast features long-form interviews with musicians and members of the creative class, hosted by me, Leo Sidran.
Their stories of discovery, loss, ambition, identity, improvisation, risk, and reward are deeply moving and compelling for all of us as we embark on our own creative journeys.
Most recent episode: Nels Cline
Steven Greenberg, the creative force behind the hit “Funkytown”, on crafting one of the most enduring dance tracks of all time, bridging the transition from disco to synth-driven pop, and the discipline required to bring musical ideas to life in an era before digital shortcuts.
Drummer, producer, and composer Makaya McCraven, whose work bridges improvisation, production, and cultural synthesis, on rhythm, time, and the balance of tradition and innovation, plus his creative journey, from his roots in Northampton, Massachusetts, to his innovative projects like In The Moment and In These Times. This hybrid episode spanning interviews from 2022 and 2025 offers a deep dive into the mind of a true beat scientist.
Revisiting this conversation with Jacob Collier recorded at his family home in North London, just as his career was beginning to take flight. At 20 years old, Jacob had already captivated musicians and fans alike with his groundbreaking YouTube videos. Ten years later, with six Grammys, millions of fans, and collaborations with icons like Herbie Hancock and Chris Martin, Jacob’s journey from his small music room to global acclaim underscores the transformative power of artistic connection. This early conversation captures a young artist at the cusp of greatness, offering a rare glimpse into the genesis of one of the most influential musicians of our time.
Nels Cline’s career defies the myth of a predictable artistic timeline. From decades in the avant-garde to nearly 20 years in Wilco, his journey is one of persistence & reinvention. Here he talks about music, identity & his new album Consentrik Quartet.