In this special Black History Month episode of The Bearded Baldcast: A Wes Side Story, we dive into the often-overlooked contributions of Black artists who shaped Broadway into what it is today. From the groundbreaking Shuffle Along in 1921 to the soul-stirring The Color Purple, we explore how Black musicians, composers, and performers have influenced the very sound and style of musical theater.

We’ll celebrate the jazz, blues, and gospel roots of Broadway, highlight the Black-led productions that broke barriers, and discuss modern musicals that continue the legacy of excellence. From The Wiz to Ain’t Too Proud, this episode is a tribute to the power of Black storytelling on stage.

Hit play to learn, celebrate, and maybe even sing along—because without Black artists, Broadway wouldn’t be Broadway. 🎶✨

Listen now and subscribe! 🎙️

In this episode, I dive into the new Death Becomes Her musical—does it capture the campy brilliance of the original film, or does it need a little more magic? Then, I venture into the world of Dungeon Crawler Carl, sharing my thoughts on this wild, post-apocalyptic adventure and why it’s gripping so many readers. Finally, I get personal about friendships and differing opinions—can we still love and respect each other even when we don’t see eye to eye? Spoiler: Absolutely. Tune in for theater talk, book reviews, and some real-world reflection on embracing different perspectives.

In this episode of The Bearded Baldcast: A Wes Side Story, Wesley dives into a little bit of everything—because why not?

First up, we’re revisiting some thoughts on past inaugurations and how they’ve shaped (or shaken) the political landscape. Whether you’re feeling nostalgic, skeptical, or just ready for the next chapter, we’ve got some thoughts to share.

Then, it’s movie time! Wesley reviews the latest releases from this week, gives his take on what’s worth watching, and previews the cinematic blockbusters and surprises coming this summer. From big-budget spectacles to hidden indie gems, there’s something for every movie lover.

And, of course, what’s an episode without a Broadway update? Wesley shares the latest buzz from the Great White Way, including what’s making headlines and what theater fans should keep their eyes (and ears) on.

It’s a packed episode full of opinions, laughs, and a little something for everyone. Tune in, subscribe, and get ready for your weekly dose of all things Wes Side!

Welcome to the debut episode of The Bearded Baldcast: A Wes Side Story! In this introductory episode, host Wesley Swain sets the stage for what’s to come—a candid, witty, and heartfelt podcast exploring the world around us.

Wesley dives into the absurdity of today’s political landscape, reflecting on the challenges of staying hopeful when progress feels messy and setbacks feel personal. He shares insights on standing your ground when life backs you into a corner, reminding us that resilience and showing up matter more than always winning.

On a lighter note, Wesley celebrates the healing power of pop culture, from the enduring magic of Broadway’s Wicked to the cathartic music of Ghost and the transformative power of storytelling in film.

This episode is equal parts uplifting, thought-provoking, and fun—a perfect introduction to a space where your voice matters, even in a chaotic world. Tune in for laughs, honest reflections, and a reminder to stay fabulous and keep moving forward.

Subscribe now and join the conversation!