From community journalism to health care and higher ed, Mike’s career is powered by a passion to discover, create and share stories that connect people and advance strategic priorities.


A Good Day in Austin

I was going through some old notes and found my SXSW "to see" list from March 18, 2010. That was the day we caught the Drive-By Truckers at Waterloo Records, and ate at HUTS (rest in peace). If my notes can be believed, we zoomed through the New Zeland day party (I have vague memories of this), then started a killer evening with Nicole Atkins and John Hiatt at La Zona Rosa (I remember both these sets, especially Hiatt, as being outstanding). Then at 10 pm we had a choice:

  • Bobby Bare Jr. at Emo's Annex

  • She & Him at Cedar Street

  • Drive-By Truckers (again) at Stubbs

  • Cedric Burnside at the Continental Club

Remember where we went? That's right, BB Jr. in a tent, in the middle of the street. I recall this as being a surreally beautiful smoking show. We for sure made the right decision, although I bet the Burnside set at CC was pretty good. 

So many good days and nights at SXSW. This one was exceptional. 

Cruising with Chrome Dreams