In this episode of Trip Thru Time, we explore the unforgettable experience of Pretty Lights at Elements Festival with our guests, Brandon and Molly. Dive into the magic of the secret renegade set that took place at 3:30 am, a spontaneous performance that left festival-goers in awe. We also discuss the two captivating sets on Sunday: a solo set that showcased Pretty Lights' unique soundscapes and a full band set that brought the festival to a thrilling close. Join us as we relive these extraordinary moments and hear firsthand accounts from Brandon and Molly, who were there to witness it all. Tune in for an insider's look at the festival's highlights and the community that makes it all possible.

Recorded 9/6/2025

Ben and Kris are back, for a deep dive into the cosmic voyage of Pretty Lights' first night at Yahn Dawn in Buena Vista. In this second part of the recap, the duo breaks down both sets of the legendary performance, giving you a track-by-track analysis and discussing the overall atmosphere of the night.

Featuring exclusive audio and visual clips from the iconic lucid stream, Ben and Kris weave you in and out of the conversation, reminiscing on standout musical moments, and sharing some off-topic and unfiltered musings. Whether you were there under the stars at Meadow Creek or following the stream from afar, get ready for an intimate and insightful trip back to one of the most talked-about nights of the summer.

Recorded 7/10/25

Get ready for a mind-bending journey back to Pretty Lights' magical Yahn Dawn festival in Buena Vista, Colorado! In this first of three recap episodes, we dive headfirst into the Thursday pre-party events with special guest Kris, also known as "Tofer Toast" – the legendary yellow shirt guy seen dancing passionately front row on live streams and recap videos.

We'll kick things off by getting to know Kris, what makes him such a dedicated fan, and his initial thoughts leading into the incredible Yahn Dawn experience. Then, we relive the epic Thursday pre-party sets at the Prismatic Playa, featuring Pretty Lights' Derek Vincent Smith (aka Bridgeriño), Pretty Lights consigliere Michal Menert and Shooka. Prepare for an immersive recap filled with passion, music, and the unique energy that only the Pretty Lights family can create!

Recorded 7/10/2025

Join us as we dive into the unique experience of organizing a 5K race at Yahn Dawn, the Pretty Lights music festival event 6/26-6/28. Our guest, Matan Korrub, shares his journey from a solo runner to a community leader, bringing together his love for running and music. Discover how this event, filled with unexpected challenges and heartwarming moments, became a testament to the power of community and the transformative impact of music. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a festival enthusiast, this episode offers a fresh perspective on blending fitness with festival vibes.

Recorded 7/19/2025

Ben checks in solo to share what’s new with Trip Thru Time — from prepping for Buena Vista and welcoming a baby, to shifting creative priorities and reflecting on how Pretty Lights and this community continue to shape his life.

He shouts out past guests contributing to BV, like Samso, Hyperspace Sky, and the Swirl Safe team, and invites listeners to get involved via a new voicemail line and fan-sourced video project.

Stick around to the end for two unreleased raps Ben recorded 14 years ago — a full-circle moment in an episode all about growth, gratitude, and what’s next.

From a high school sculpture class in Atlanta to nearly 100 Pretty Lights shows, Nicholas Bitzis—aka Niko Beats—takes us on a vivid journey through the highs, lows, and pivotal moments of his musical pilgrimage. He recounts his first PL show at The Masquerade in 2009 at just 14, the life-shifting sunrise set at Bonnaroo, and how Pretty Lights became a compass through wild road trips, busted vans, lost recordings, and deep personal transformation.

We dive into his time working at Miami’s Hit Factory, writing for Electric Hawk, building custom PL-inspired lamps, and witnessing legendary moments like SnowBall, the Red Rocks Symphony shows, and the final Analog Future set at BUKU. Nick shares the stories behind iconic fan memories, his evolution into a setlist documentarian, and the meaning he’s found in being part of a community that continues to inspire connection and creativity.

Recorded 5/29/2025

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Ben sits down with Jess MC — one of the original founders of the Pretty Lights Family Facebook group and a true OG in the scene since 2009. Broadcasting a lifetime of experience, Jess opens up about her deep connection to Pretty Lights’ music, the accident that nearly took her life, and how the music and community helped carry her through recovery and into a leadership role that shaped the culture of the PLF.

From discovering Pretty Lights on a road trip to photographing Derek from atop a Philly stranger’s shoulders at All Good 2011, Jess shares vivid stories that trace the evolution of the PLF and illuminators program. The episode also touches on the darker corners of the community — scams, safety issues, and the need for trust — and highlights the launch of Swirl Safe, a new initiative to protect fans during shows.

Come for the wild stories, stay for the heart: this is the story of one fan’s transformation into a leader, a healer, and a symbol of what makes the Pretty Lights family so special.

As time goes by, memories never die.

Recorded 4/22/2025

On this very special episode, Ben welcomes someone who's been part of his journey long before the podcast even began - his wife, Giselle (aka Mrs. Bahdoo)! Broadcasting from Las Vegas after seeing Dead & Company at The Sphere, they reflect on a lifetime of shared musical memories - from bumping into each other at random shows in Chicago to traveling across the country for Pretty Lights, String Cheese Incident, Sound Tribe, and more.

They dive into the highs and lows of The Sphere experience, their favorite festivals like Hulaween, Summer Camp, and Same Same But Different and how Pretty Lights and Sound Tribe each uniquely shaped their relationship with live music. There's plenty of laughs (and a few rants) along the way - plus some heartfelt moments about their growing family.

Come for the banter, stay for the memories - because as time goes by, memories never die... even if Giselle forgets a few along the way.

Recorded 3/21/2025