The Beat Broadcast

Vinny Appice: From John Lennon to Black Sabbath

What does it take to become the backbone of Black Sabbath and Dio? For Vinny Appice, it started with a drum set in the living room and a life-changing call from John Lennon. In this deep dive, Vinny takes us inside his "man cave" studio to discuss his legendary career and the gear that fuels his sound.
From the high school hallway to the stage of the New York Hilton with a Beatle, Vinny shares the pivotal moments that defined his journey. He also opens up about his professional philosophy on never burning bridges and how he continues to honor the legacy of Ronnie James Dio with Last in Line.

Survivor Wendy

When "Simple" Becomes a Battle for Life
One mammogram changed everything. After being persuaded by her mother to stop choosing work over health, Wendy was diagnosed with estrogen-based breast cancer. But what started as a "simple" prognosis quickly spiraled into a grueling journey through 24 positive lymph nodes, aggressive chemo, and a life-threatening MRSA infection.
In this episode, Wendy joins The Beat Broadcast to share how she navigated 37 rounds of radiation and a five-month recovery with a wound vac. From fighting "chemo brain" with puzzles to becoming a fierce advocate for others, Wendy’s story is a masterclass in resilience and the life-saving power of early detection.

Survivor Jill

In this deeply honest episode, Jill, a Stage 3 breast cancer survivor, shares her powerful and unfiltered journey from diagnosis to recovery. Diagnosed at just 39 after discovering a lump that immediately echoed her mother’s own battle with breast cancer, Jill opens up about the shock of receiving the news, the realities of aggressive treatment, and her decision to face cancer on her own terms. She reflects on navigating chemotherapy, severe side effects, and “chemo brain,” while also addressing the emotional toll of keeping her diagnosis private and pushing back against toxic positivity. With raw insight, dark humor, and vivid storytelling, Jill offers a candid look at survival, resilience, and what it really means to cope with cancer behind the scenes.

Survivor Shelli

Join breast cancer survivor, drummer, author, and founder of Breast Cancer Can Stick It!, April Samuels, as she sits down with fellow breast cancer survivor Shelli for an inspiring and powerful episode of The Beat Broadcast. Shelli open up about her 2011 diagnosis of aggressive triple-negative breast cancer at the age of 38, and how humor became a vital part of her healing journey.

Zoro (Lenny Kravitz Drummer)

Drum legend Zoro (Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown) joins The Beat Broadcast with host and founder April Samuels for an inspiring conversation about music, purpose, and giving back. Zoro shares highlights from his iconic career behind the kit, the lessons rhythm has taught him on and off stage, and why using his platform to support the fight against breast cancer matters deeply to him. This powerful segment blends rockstar stories with real impact, showing how music can be a force for awareness, connection, and change.

Survivor Allison

Join host April Samuels on The Beat Broadcast as she sits down with Allison, a therapist, breast cancer survivor, and shining example of resilience. After discovering a lump during a self-exam, Allison was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma, HER2+, estrogen-positive, grade 3, which had metastasized to her bones. But instead of letting the diagnosis define her, Allison found gratitude in every day. She shares her inspiring story of strength and hope, plus her own “Chemo Care Pack” essentials, from heating pads to weighted blankets, to help others stay comfortable through treatment.

Aaron Comess (Spin Doctors Drummer)

It's not often that original members of a band stick together, through thick and thin, for over 30 years, but such is the case for 3 of the 4 members in Spin Doctors. Drummer Aaron Comess is one of those who has been with the Spin Doctors since the start. Watch this candid chat about his drumming history and the future of the music industry.

Blas Elias (Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Slaughter Drummer)

From hair band to blue man, Blas Elias is a studied drummer with a vault of style, charisma, and chops. Blas has enjoyed over 40 years of combined success through being a part of Slaughter in the 80s, Blue Man Group in the 2000's, and now enjoying life as a long-standing member of the rock production ensemble, Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Listen as Blas takes us on a journey through his humble school band days through to his current tour with Stephen Percy (Ratt).

Survivor Amanda

After a chance meeting with our founder, April Samuels, in Bossier City, Louisiana, Amanda was scheduled to be a guest in short order on The Beat Broadcast. With her quick wit and hopeful smile, Amanda describes how, in many ways, a breast cancer diagnosis was the best thing to ever happen to her.
 
(The Beat broadcast is hosted by April Samuels. April is a drummer out of Dallas, TX, a breast cancer survivor, author, and the founder of Breast Cancer Can Stick It!. The show features breast cancer survivors and musicians/celebrities, and is streamed live on the Breast Cancer Can Stick It! Facebook page. See https://www.breastcancercanstickit.org for more information.)

Rod Morgenstein (Winger and the Dixie Dregs Drummer)

Dive into an exclusive, high-energy conversation with legendary drummer Rod Morgenstein of Winger and The Dixie Dregs. In this captivating interview, Rod opens up about the spark that first pulled him behind the kit, the evolution of his sound, and the stories behind some of his most unforgettable performances. He shares honest reflections on his journey through the rock world, the challenges that shaped him, and the creative moments that defined his career. Rod’s passion, humor, and wisdom shine through every minute, making this a must-watch for drummers, rock fans, and anyone who loves a great behind-the-scenes story. Tune in and get inspired by one of rock’s most iconic and influential players.