Episodes

  • Song Lyrics to Stories: Jay Armstrong's 'Follow Your Dreams Down'

    Song Lyrics to Stories: Jay Armstrong's 'Follow Your Dreams Down'
    Nov 28 2025
    In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson welcomes guest Jay Armstrong, a longtime friend and one of the podcast's earliest guests. Jay shares insights from his teaching experiences, where he used Bruce Springsteen's 'Thunder Road' as a poetic exercise for his students. The episode dives into the longstanding debate over whether Mary gets in the car and how perspectives on the song have evolved over time. Jay discusses his new book, 'Follow Your Dreams Down: Scenes from Small Towns, Jukebox Nights, and Roads That Give Second Chances,' which is a collection of short stories inspired by Springsteen's songs. The conversation also touches on Jay's experiences with his medical condition, the importance of resilience, and the challenges of writing fiction. Tune in for an engaging discussion about music, teaching, and the human experience, all through the lens of Bruce Springsteen's work. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Jay Armstrong 00:28 The Thunder Road Classroom Debate 03:10 Jay's New Book and Writing Journey 05:24 Exploring Themes in Bruce's Music 07:28 Jay's Fiction Writing Inspiration 10:56 Challenges of Writing Short Stories 18:16 Bruce Springsteen's Recent Works and Collaborations 23:41 Reflecting on Youth and Urgency 24:16 Anticipation for the Bruce Springsteen Movie 25:13 The Challenge of Being True to Oneself 26:47 The Fear of Rejection 28:12 Writing and Letting Go 29:37 Lessons from Living with a Condition 31:54 Memories and Stories of Loved Ones 33:08 The Absurdity of Love 36:10 Crafting a Book Like a Concert Setlist 40:45 Connecting with Readers 44:32 Final Thoughts and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
  • Thanksgiving Message 2025

    Thanksgiving Message 2025
    Nov 27 2025
    Taking a few moments to thank everyone for their support and wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    5 mins
  • "Memories and Music: Tim Julius on Bootlegs, Family, and Bruce"

    "Memories and Music: Tim Julius on Bootlegs, Family, and Bruce"
    Nov 26 2025
    In this episode, join Jesse Jackson, host of Set Lusting Bruce, for a touching conversation with Tim Julius. They discuss everything from technical mishaps while recording, Bruce Springsteen's influence on their lives, the power of music, family dynamics, and personal stories of love and loss. Tim shares his deep connection with various Bruce Springsteen songs and albums, recounts his memorable concert experiences, and talks about his intriguing 'Mary question' theory. This episode delves into how Bruce's music intertwines with their personal lives, making for an engaging and emotional discussion. 00:00 Technical Difficulties and Introductions 00:29 Re-recording the Interview 01:41 Meet Tim Julius 03:46 Musical Influences and Family Memories 06:21 Discovering Bruce Springsteen 08:43 Marriage and Life Lessons 11:43 Springsteen Concert Experiences 13:23 Bootlegs and Recording Concerts 21:54 Autograph Adventures 35:38 Family Traditions and Theme Songs 36:12 Concert Memories and Special Performances 37:48 Bruce Springsteen's Unique Covers 42:39 Labor Issues and Economic Realities 46:44 Emotional Stories and Personal Connections 01:02:12 The Mary Question and Relationship Reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 13 mins
  • Hugh Flynn's Heartwarming Memoir: A Tale of Love, Family, and Resilience

    Hugh Flynn's Heartwarming Memoir: A Tale of Love, Family, and Resilience
    Nov 25 2025
    In this episode Hugh Flynn talks about his new memoir, 'Something Special: A Gay Brother, A Disabled Brother, An Eventful Brother, A War.' Hugh shares the emotionally charged story of his brother Aaron, who has Down Syndrome, and the familial and legal battles he faced to protect him. They touch on the themes of unconditional love, resilience, and the complexities of family dynamics. Hugh also reflects on his own experiences growing up in a Midwestern family, his career as a writer, and his personal connection to Bruce Springsteen's music. Don't miss this touching and insightful conversation! https://a.co/d/3Am2omQ https://www.instagram.com/hughflynn24 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:12 Hugh Flynn's Background and Career 02:34 Writing and Teaching Insights 05:32 Family and Early Influences 15:27 Aaron's Story and Family Dynamics 33:01 Family Feud and Legal Battles 34:05 The Role of Attorneys and Bias in Probate 34:49 Aaron: The Calm in the Storm 35:45 Writing the Book: A Non-Sequential Journey 36:40 Societal Values and Personal Reflections 37:32 Aaron's Influence and Family Dynamics 38:48 The Power of Unconditional Love 43:54 Legal Struggles and Personal Sacrifices 51:20 Bruce Springsteen and Music Memories 55:50 Final Thoughts and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Eagles, Cowboys, and Bruce Springsteen: A Conversation with Kevin Kinkead from Crossing Broad

    Eagles, Cowboys, and Bruce Springsteen: A Conversation with Kevin Kinkead from Crossing Broad
    Nov 21 2025
    Join Jesse Jackson as he sits down with Kevin Kinkead from Crossing Broad for a lively conversation. They explore a range of topics, including the heated Eagles-Cowboys rivalry, the changing landscape of the NFC East, and their mutual love for sports. Kevin shares his personal journey growing up in Philadelphia, his ventures in music, and his successful career in sports journalism. They also delve into Kevin's dislike of Bruce Springsteen and how that is an outlier based on his profession and his roots. Don't miss this engaging mix of sports talk, music exploration, and unique perspectives from two passionate fans. https://www.crossingbroad.com/ 00:00 Introduction and Tonight's Agenda 00:30 Monday Night Football Recap 01:10 Eagles vs. Cowboys Rivalry 05:46 Kevin's Musical Background 10:49 Journey into Sports Journalism 12:34 Crossing Broad and the Rise of Sports Betting 16:49 Bruce Springsteen Movie Discussion 20:01 Discussing the Bruce Springsteen Movie 20:31 Thematic Elements of the Movie 24:03 Bruce Springsteen's Appeal Across Generations 27:01 Musical Preferences and Generational Differences 32:26 Modern Music Critique 33:28 Sports Coverage and Aspirations 34:33 Philadelphia Sports Scene 36:14 Final Thoughts and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • Twice the Eric's Twice the Fun!

    Twice the Eric's Twice the Fun!
    Nov 20 2025
    Join Jesse Jackson in a delightful episode of Set Lusting Bruce as he talks with lifelong friends and Bruce Springsteen superfans, Eric P and Eric. They share their 40-year friendship, forged through their mutual love for Springsteen, and recount humorous and heartfelt stories from their adventures, including concert trips, near encounters with Bruce, and even a memorable experience during Springsteen's Broadway run. Along the way, they reflect on the impact of Springsteen's music and how it has enriched their lives and friendships. Whether you're a die-hard Bruce fan or new to his music, this episode is a must-listen! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:39 Eric and Eric's Friendship Origins 02:19 Springsteen and Concert Memories 07:43 Growing Up with Music 12:43 Discovering Bruce Springsteen 21:50 Concert Adventures and Counting Shows 25:03 Family and Music Obsessions 33:10 Selling Old Collectibles 33:23 Springsteen CD Obsession 34:06 Amazon Packages and Jokes 34:49 Value of Old CDs 35:30 Springsteen Reunion Tour Memories 38:52 Sharing Springsteen with Family 47:47 Meeting Bruce Springsteen 55:30 Chasing Songs and Concert Experiences 01:00:44 Final Thoughts and Farewells Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Rich Glass: Hat Trick Football Fables and Springsteen Stories

    Rich Glass: Hat Trick Football Fables and Springsteen Stories
    Nov 18 2025
    In another 10th anniversary episode Jesse Jackson is joined by returning guest Rich Glass. They reflect on a decade of podcasting and discuss various topics including the intricacies of being a Bruce Springsteen fan, the influences of Philadelphia DJs on Springsteen's music, and Rich's personal journey with Bruce. They also delve into the excitement of live shows, the impact of Tracks 2, and the unique experience of attending concerts in different cities. Additionally, they share amusing stories from past concerts and touch on the blending of sports fandoms, particularly the juxtaposition of Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles fans. Stay tuned till the end for a special postscript where they discuss recent sports trades and family dynamics around football loyalty. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Updates 02:22 Welcoming Rich Glass 03:28 Rich's Background and Bruce Springsteen Fandom 04:21 Philadelphia's Connection to Bruce Springsteen 07:06 Recent Concert Experiences 09:27 Thoughts on Bruce's Recent Tours and Releases 23:55 Concert Stories and Memorable Moments 35:05 Anticipating the Next Tour 35:59 Generational Concert Experiences 38:23 Reflecting on Musical Tastes and Concerts 39:39 Community and Springsteen Events 43:35 Concluding Thoughts and Farewells 45:04 Football Banter and Family Rivalries Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 2 mins
  • David Wilson - Superfan Shares Rare Concert Stories and Collecting Tips

    David Wilson - Superfan Shares Rare Concert Stories and Collecting Tips
    Nov 13 2025
    Join host Jesse Jackson and Bruce Springsteen superfan David as they dive into David's 50-year Springsteen journey, from his first Bruce concert in 1978 to collecting rare audio and video archives. Discover unique stories from David's extensive collection, his experiences with the Springsteen archives, and his fascinating insights into Bruce's history and impact. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation on what makes The Boss a legendary performer and cultural icon. https://www.facebook.com/DWilsonNJ/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:37 David's Bruce Springsteen Journey Begins 01:16 Family Musical Influences 05:06 First Bruce Concert Experience 07:33 Bruce Encounters and Memorabilia 13:44 David's Journalism Career 17:02 Springsteen Symposiums and Research 27:01 Bruce Springsteen's House Hunt 28:46 Collecting Bruce Springsteen Memorabilia 30:55 Preserving Springsteen's Legacy 32:04 Springsteen's Presidential Library Visits 32:38 Bruce Springsteen's Musical Heritage 36:20 Memorable Springsteen Concert Moments 38:07 The Light of Day Benefit Concert 40:12 Chasing Springsteen Songs 42:49 Final Thoughts and Reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    54 mins