2026 Will Be The "Year of the Mandolin" | Acoustic Shoppe Knows People Podcast

We're honored to be joined this episode by Chris Alvarado and Rhett Shull! Both creating some of the best content for guitarist on the internet, Chris and Rhett go into their histories and why they started their channels. We're sure you have checked them out but if not, you can find Chris and Rhett on YouTube!

In this episode of the podcast, The Chapmans (and Hinkster) sit down to organize their thoughts and compare their recent trips to the Martin Guitars factory and the Taylor Guitars factory. These two legendary brands take very different approaches to building world-class acoustic instruments. We are breaking down the differences in their manufacturing processes, their company cultures, how they approach tonewood selection, and how those varying philosophies translate into the final tone of the guitars.If you have ever wondered exactly what separates a Martin from a Taylor behind the scenes, pull up a chair and join the conversation! 🔗Shop Taylor Guitars Here! - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/taylor-guitars 🔗Shop Martin Guitars Here! - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/all-martin 🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

We are live from the 2026 Starvy Creek Bluegrass Festival sitting down with one of the most iconic high tenor voices in the history of bluegrass!In this special on-location episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, the Chapmans set up shop backstage to chat with bluegrass legend and multi-time IBMA Vocalist of the Year, Larry Stephenson!With over 30 years leading The Larry Stephenson Band and decades of performing at the highest level, Larry shares incredible stories from his career, his deep roots in traditional bluegrass, and his take on how the genre has evolved over the years. We also talk mandolins, life on the festival circuit, and what makes performing at a historic venue like Starvy Creek so special to touring artists.

Two absolute legends, one incredible conversation! You do not want to miss this rare look into acoustic history.In this very special episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, the Chapmans are joined by two titans of the acoustic instrument world: Bob Taylor (founder of Taylor Guitars) and Greg Deering (founder of Deering Banjos)!Beyond building two of the most iconic, industry-leading brands in acoustic music, Bob and Greg share a deep, decades-long friendship that goes all the way back to their early days starting out in San Diego. In this interview, we dive into their shared history, how their early bond shaped their respective approaches to instrument manufacturing, and the mutual respect that has kept them close over a lifetime of innovation.Thank you so much to Bob and Greg for taking the time to sit down with us at the Fretboard Summit this year. It was a joy to hear their history. 🔗Shoppe Taylor Guitars - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/taylor-guitars 🔗Shoppe Deering Banjos - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/deering 🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground