In this episode of The Hook, Johni and Jess sit down with Matt Smith of Permanent Vacation, Dave McKinny of Dreamsicle, and Will Migern from Children’s Home Services of Virginia to talk about the music, meaning, and mission behind the charity event Bowling for Boat Drinks.

What started as a Jimmy Buffett tribute event is about much more than tropical shirts and margaritas—it’s about using music to create real impact. Matt and Dave share what makes Buffett’s music so timeless and why his message of freedom, escape, and belonging continues to bring people together. They also talk about the unique energy of tribute performances and the connection they feel with audiences who aren’t just listening—but living the experience.

Will offers a powerful look into the mission of Children’s Home Services of Virginia, an organization that has supported foster youth and young adults for over a century. He shares the realities these young people face and how community-driven events like Bowling for Boat Drinks help provide stability, opportunity, and hope.

This conversation explores how creativity, community, and compassion intersect—and how music can be more than entertainment. It can be a bridge. A voice. And sometimes, a lifeline.

Whether you’re a Buffett fan, a musician, or simply someone who believes in the power of showing up for others, this episode captures what it truly means to get hooked—not just on music, but on purpose.

To support & learn more about Children’s Home Services of Virginia, visit:

https://chsva.org/

To keep up with upcoming shows from Matt Smith of Permanent Vacation, Dave McKinny of Dreamsicle, you can follow them on social media at:

Permanent Vacation:

https://www.facebook.com/PermVaK

Dreamsicle:

https://www.instagram.com/dreamsicleband/

https://www.facebook.com/hungryhardluckheroes

Thank you for listening to The Hook Pondcast.
This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed.

Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at:
https://www.johniandjess.com

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The Hook Pondcast — where passion begins with a moment.