In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, hosts Martin Hebda and Matt Kozacek catch up on exciting band adventures—from an upcoming international performance tour in Ireland to reflections on unforgettable parade experiences. Then, they welcome special guest Dr. Stephen Meyer, Director of Bands at Northern Arizona University, for an in-depth conversation about leadership, teaching, and the ever-evolving marching arts.

Dr. Meyer shares his inspiring musical journey from Ohio to NAU, including impactful teaching experiences in Georgia and Texas, and his work with collegiate ensembles across the country. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at NAU’s band program, including their memorable appearance in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and how the program continues to grow through community, creativity, and student engagement.

The discussion dives into what defines excellence in marching band today, the importance of connecting music to emotion, and how directors can focus on solutions over excuses. Dr. Meyer also highlights the value of drawing inspiration from outside the band world—whether it’s Broadway, film, or even stand-up comedy—to create meaningful and engaging performances.

Whether you’re a student considering college band, a director refining your craft, or a fan of the marching arts, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and practical advice to elevate your perspective.

In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, hosts Martin Hebda and Matt Kozacek kick off their college marching band director series with a special guest: Chad Shoopman, Director of Athletic Bands at the University of Arizona.

Chad shares his incredible musical journey—from starting trumpet in Texas to performing professionally at Disney and eventually leading the Pride of Arizona. The conversation dives into what makes college marching band such a unique and rewarding experience, highlighting the differences from high school, the life-changing opportunities for students, and the powerful sense of community it creates.

Listeners will get an inside look at the realities of running a major collegiate band program, including travel logistics, game day traditions, evolving technology in marching arts, and the importance of leadership and student development. Chad also reflects on memorable performances, the impact of COVID-era bands, and why Band Day remains one of the most meaningful events of the year.

Whether you're a high school student considering college band, a director guiding young musicians, or a lifelong marching arts fan, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and a deep appreciation for the Arizona band community.

Topics include:

- Transitioning from high school to college marching band

- Behind the scenes of major athletic band programs

- The role of technology and social media in modern bands

- Why every student should consider marching in college

- Memorable performances and career highlights

- Celebrating the Arizona band community

Special thanks to our sponsors for supporting the Arizona Marching Band Association and helping connect, educate, and inspire musicians across the state.

In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, hosts Martin Hebda and Dan Hoffman sit down with show designer and program coordinator Ryan Springler for a deep dive into the art and strategy behind marching band show design.

The conversation explores what a program coordinator really does, how successful design teams collaborate, and why trust and communication are essential to building a thriving band program.

Along the way, Ryan discusses his creative process, the importance of developing a broad library of artistic influences, and why designing a show is less like sculpting marble and more like gardening—nurturing ideas, people, and culture over time. The trio also reflects on memorable Arizona shows, lessons from decades of collaboration, and how thoughtful leadership can elevate both student experiences and program success.

Whether you’re a band director, designer, educator, or student, this episode offers practical insight into the philosophy, creativity, and teamwork that bring marching productions to life.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

- Ryan’s path into pageantry arts and show design

- The evolving role of the program coordinator in marching bands

- How creativity, research, and inspiration shape a production

- Building trust between directors, designers, and staff

- Why long-term program development matters more than a single show

- Advice for young designers entering the activity

A thoughtful and inspiring conversation about leadership, creativity, and the people who make the marching arts possible.