This week on On A Water Break, it’s all about nerves, leadership, representation, and celebrating unforgettable wins in the marching arts. Host Josh Smith is joined by new panelists Dalton Stout, Clara Bagwell, and Eric Levy — all making their podcast debut!

The team kicks things off with their 32 Count Life Stories and a fun icebreaker: “What part of the marching band are you?” Clara relives her gold-medal summer with the Boston Crusaders, Dalton shares his journey from Nebraska to Colorado and launching DVS Choreo, and Eric spotlights his 20+ years of teaching and his work with Drumline Network.

In the News Block, we cover:

• The retirement of Iowa’s legendary announcer Lou Crist after 44 years

• Miami budget cuts cutting $12.8M in arts funding

• A stolen band trailer in Colorado and tips for protecting your equipment

• PASIC 2025 announcements featuring RhythmX and George Mason

Dalton delivers the 60-Second Tech Block on choreography hacks, and in Water We Doing?! the crew takes on audition nerves, teaching leadership in a post-COVID generation, body shaming in DCI, and the importance of ensemble unity. The episode wraps with Gush & Go, highlighting Boston’s first DCI championship, new percussion challenges, and student success stories.

Panelists & Socials:

• Dalton Stout – IG/TikTok: @saltydalti | daltonvstout.com

• Clara Bagwell – IG: @_clara.01100010

• Eric Levy – IG: @worldoferic | Drumline Network & Percussion League

• Josh Smith – TikTok: @mr.smiths.band

Sponsors:

• Peak Group Travel – @peak.group.travel | peakgrouptravel.com

• Guard Closet – @guardcloset | guardcloset.com

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