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

Ben welcomes back HammyT to deep dive into Pretty Lights history, community stories, and the moments that make this scene so special. As the first returning guest on Trip Thru Time, HammyT comes back with more tales, more insight, and plenty of laughs.

The two unpack major news in the PL universe—from Buena Vista being billed as the “only band event of the summer” to Derek and Uma expecting their first child—and speculate on what it all might mean for future shows, formats, and the fan experience.

HammyT shares stories that span from early meet-and-greets and setlist requests that actually came true, to riding the rail for all 3 nights of the armory in Minneapolis to end with his father-in-law buying a PL merch booth hat which Derek and Michal signed as they greeted the rail at the end of night 3.

Together, Ben and HammyT pull out some stand out stage quotes/banter moments from shows and experiences that could only happen in this uniquely connected fanbase. As time goes by, memories never die.

For reference this was recorded in early March, the day of the Buena Vista presale announcement.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Trip Thru Time, Ben sits down with Brennen, the artist behind Illumination Lab Art, whose fresh designs — from pins to PL stickers — have become iconic within the Pretty Lights family. From the early days of Free Press Summer Fest, and the X-Games in Austin, to full-circle moments at Mission Ballroom for the return from hiatus and Marti Gras World for the Soundship Space System tour closer, Brennan shares how his journey through addiction, recovery, and rediscovering Pretty Lights helped spark a new purpose in life.

We dive into his transformation through music and art, the origin and emotional weight of the Yellowbird design, and how creating Illumination Lab became both a personal mission and a vehicle for community connection. Along the way, we reflect on how we've both built something meaningful from the PL comeback — whether it's crafting stickers that turn strangers into family or launching a podcast project rooted in passion and growth.

This one’s a trip through real darkness and real light — a testament to how music can heal, connect, and inspire. Shout out to the Yellowbirds, the Discord crew, and every creator out there pouring love into the scene.

In this episode of Trip Thru Time, Ben sits down with Brandon Rietheimer—legend of the Pretty Lights Family—for a deep dive into the early days of taping shows, building the Pretty Lights Live archive, and designing some of the most iconic PL pins ever made. From stories on tour to chasing rare tracks and debut moments, Brandon shares how he’s helped document the culture, music, and connection that define this scene. Plus, we talk about the evolution of the live experience, Brandon’s favorite shows, and the launch of the PL Live streaming app.

In this episode, Ben sits down with Sky, aka Hyperspace Sky, to explore his journey through music, spirituality, and self-discovery. From his deep connection to Pretty Lights to his experiences with breathwork, yoga, and healing, Sky shares how these elements have shaped his life. Plus, we dive into the energy of the Warfield shows, his daughter's incredible birth story, and the power of community in music.

In this episode, we sit down with Sam Ackels to talk Pretty Lights, music theory, and community connections. From his journey into the PL universe to jam structures, dream collaborations, and building the ultimate PL Superband, this conversation is packed with insight and love for the music. Plus, a sneak peek into what Samso has planned for 2025.

Intro/Outro: 2024-10-25 Live @ Las Vegas

Ben sits down with Tom, aka HammyT88, whose YouTube channel has garnered over 2M views, to discuss Pretty Lights’ 2-Night NYE run in Chicago. They dive into the evolution of live music, the impact of community, and the unforgettable moments that make Pretty Lights shows so special. From favorite venues and standout songs to the joys of live-streaming and fan interactions, this episode captures the heart of the Pretty Lights family. Don’t miss this deep dive into the music and memories that bring us all together!