The inaugural Santa Monica International Jazz Festival celebrates the 100-year anniversaries of Miles Davis and John Coltrane with a cross-generational pool of musicians impacted by their legacies. Artistic director and legendary bassist Stanley Clarke reflects on formative encounters with Davis; the lasting influence of John Coltrane; and the importance of mentorship. Drummer Vincent Wilburn, nephew of Miles Davis, offers personal remembrances of his uncle’s vision and impact on and off the bandstand. Rising voices Natasha Agrama and Emilio Modeste of Instant Alter share how they transform guidance from mentors into bold, original music. Together, these conversations trace a lineage of knowledge passed from generation to generation. As all of these artists prepare to appear at the festival, our episode weaves their stories into a larger portrait of jazz as a living tradition built on courage and connection.