Host Anna Blair opens up about being adopted, and the humble beginnings of Threads & Chords — a podcast built with a phone, a small mic, and a big heart. This first Loose Threads episode weaves together the story behind the show, the leap from behind-the-scenes to behind-the-mic, and the search for belonging. It closes with an original WinterChild piece that flows with a quiet, watery melancholy.

Self-taught, self-aware, and a little bit feral, Bad Science (aka Lance Isaacs/Stak­wa­hereshi) joins Anna Blair in the Edison Room to talk music, identity, and learning to howl louder than the doubt. From his roots in Six Nations to outlaw punk shows and abandoned train stations, Lance shares the story behind his moniker, his sound, and why he leans into the weird. It’s a conversation full of grit, guitars, and unfiltered honesty—plus a few aliens, useless superpowers, and one unforgettable live performance.

In this episode of Threads & Chords, Chelsea McWilliams of The Red Hill Valleys connects with host Anna Blair to share her journey from family jam sessions to international stages. She opens up about helping young musicians find their voices, rockstar moments with some surprises, and why staying grounded (and laughing) matters most. Candid, warm, and full of heart.

In this episode of Threads & Chords, host Anna Blair explores the art of making music from the ground up with Burlington native Paul Dickinson—seasoned drummer, craftsman, and founder of Udrum, the underground drum company. Paul takes us behind the scenes of his journey, from performing on stage to shaping custom drums by hand. It’s a conversation about rhythm, resilience, and the beauty of creating something lasting with your own two hands. Settle in for stories of sound, skill, letting go of perfectionism, and the heartbeat of craftsmanship.

In this first episode of Threads & Chords, host Anna Blair sits down with Burlington guitarist Sean Donley to explore the threads of grit and creativity that shape his music. From the early days of finding his sound to the moments that keep him grounded, Sean shares insights into his journey as a musician. Plus, he graces us with a special live performance of his unreleased song "Jack & Jim," only available here on Threads & Chords. Pull up a chair and join the conversation.