MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #477: Nate Morris
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Nate Morris is Chairman and CEO of , a privately held conglomerate headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky. Founded in 2010, Morris Industries leverages the power of business to solve some of America’s biggest challenges. Before founding Morris Industries, Nate Morris established Rubicon, one of America’s largest waste and recycling companies, operating in 50 states and 20 countries. Legally formed in 2009 with a $10,000 line of credit. Morris served as CEO for over 12 years. Under his leadership, Morris led a $ 2 billion transaction to bring Rubicon public on...
info_outline
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #476: Lance Burton
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Step into the world of a true master of illusion, Lance Burton, a magician widely considered by his peers to be the greatest of the last century. As magic historian Mike Caveney famously stated, “Take every Magician in the world, line them up and give them each twelve minutes…Lance Wins!” His journey began in Kentucky, where a childhood fascination with a magic trick, "The Miser's Dream," sparked a lifelong passion. This early interest quickly evolved into a prodigious talent, leading him to win the "Gold Medal for Excellence" from the International Brotherhood of Magicians in 1980....
info_outline
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #474: Kent "Swampy" Glade
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Kent “Swampy” Glade is an environmental scientist, speaker, and filmmaker dedicated to promoting environmental education and awareness, with a special focus on wetlands and water conservation. Over the course of more than 40 years, Glade has been a passionate advocate for clean water and the protection of vital wetland ecosystems. He created the character Swampy as a way to engage audiences of all ages in environmental stewardship, using storytelling and creativity to make complex issues accessible and relatable. As a filmmaker and concept artist, Glade produces content that highlights...
info_outline
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #474: Coach Jay Cobb
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
We're taking a closer look at Coach Jay Cobb, the head coach of the varsity football team at the legendary Trinity High School in Louisville, Kentucky. Trinity is a powerhouse with a storied tradition, consistently ranked among Kentucky's top high school football programs, and known for producing a long line of collegiate and professional players. Before being appointed head coach of the Trinity Shamrocks in 2021, Jay Cobb had already built a robust career and a reputation for turning around football programs. His journey through various high schools was marked by consistently improving team...
info_outline
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #473: Alli Truttmann
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Alli is the founder and CEO of Wicked Sheets, now called Wicked Technologies. Wicked Technologies specializes in moisture-wicking and cooling bedding products that alleviate night sweats and enhance sleep quality. Her journey into entrepreneurship began in 2008 when she sought a solution for her night sweats. She created bedding that addressed this common issue. Educational Background: Truttmann holds degrees from Bellarmine University and the University of Louisville, where she earned a master’s degree in psychology. Professional Experience: Before founding Wicked Sheets, she worked as...
info_outline
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #472: Chris Tucker
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Born on August 31, 1971, in Atlanta, Georgia, Christopher Tucker would rise from the vibrant streets of Decatur to the heights of international stardom, carving out a singular niche as one of Hollywood’s most recognizable comedic actors and entertainers. Tucker, the youngest of six children in a working-class household, was raised in a profoundly spiritual, disciplined environment. His father, Norris Tucker, operated an independent janitorial business, while his mother, Mary Louise Tucker, held the family together with faith and fortitude. Even as a young boy, Chris possessed an...
info_outline
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #470/471: Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Colby Daniel Lopez, known globally by his ring name Seth Rollins, was born on May 28, 1986, in the quiet town of Buffalo, Iowa. Over two decades, he has evolved from an ambitious young talent on the independent wrestling circuit into one of World Wrestling Entertainment’s (WWE) most decorated, dynamic, and enduring performers. Rollins first made his mark in professional wrestling between 2005 and 2010, competing under the ring name Tyler Black. His early career was primarily defined by his tenure in Ring of Honor (ROH), one of the most respected independent wrestling promotions in the United...
info_outline
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #468/469: Larry and Danielynn Burkhead
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Larry Birkhead is a notable American photographer and public figure, widely recognized for his connection to the late model and actress Anna Nicole Smith and his role as the biological father of their daughter, Dannielynn Birkhead. His life story has been marked by his career in photography, his private relationship with Anna Nicole, and the high-profile legal battle that followed her untimely death. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1973, Larry Birkhead grew up in the city and graduated from Doss High School. He later attended the University of Louisville, where he earned a degree in...
info_outline
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #467: Kenny Burns
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Kenny Burns is a prominent American entrepreneur, brand executive, lifestyle specialist, author, and media personality. Over the past two decades, he has built a reputation as a cultural influencer and innovator across various industries, including music, fashion, spirits, and marketing. Born on October 29, 1972, in Washington, D.C., Kenny attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, though he left early to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities. His journey began in the music industry, where he made a name for himself by promoting parties and events in Atlanta and New York City. With a keen...
info_outline
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #466: Lana Scott
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Scott is a country singer-songwriter who gained national recognition on Season 21 of NBC's "The Voice," where she joined Team Blake Shelton and advanced to the Top 8. Originally from Chesapeake, Virginia and now based in Los Angeles, her musical journey included studying at Berklee College of Music before leaving early to perform on cruise ships for three years. During "The Voice," she impressed audiences with memorable performances of songs by Kelsea Ballerini, Taylor Swift, and Carrie Underwood, showcasing a unique style that blends traditional country storytelling with contemporary pop...
info_outlineMarc Martel, born on November 16, 1976, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, is a renowned singer, musician, and songwriter.
He is best known for his remarkable vocal resemblance to the late Freddie Mercury of Queen, which has earned him global recognition.
Martel’s talent and career span various musical projects, from his work in the Christian rock band Downhere to his role in recreating Mercury’s iconic vocals for Queen-related projects.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Background:
Marc Martel grew up in a Christian family in Montreal, where his father was a pastor.
He showed an early interest in music, learning piano and later developing his vocal talent.
Education:
Martel attended Briercrest College and Seminary in Saskatchewan, where he met his future bandmates and began his professional musical journey.
Career Highlights:
1. Downhere (1999–2012)
Martel co-founded Downhere, a Christian rock band, with college friends in 1999.
The band gained popularity in the Christian music scene, releasing multiple albums and winning several awards, including:
Dove Awards for Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year and Rock Recorded Song of the Year.
After more than a decade of success, the band went on hiatus in 2012.
2. The Queen Extravaganza (2011–2017)
In 2011, Martel auditioned for The Queen Extravaganza, a tribute project organized by Queen’s drummer, Roger Taylor.
His audition video, where he sang “Somebody to Love,” went viral, amassing millions of views and earning him the role of lead vocalist.
Martel toured globally with The Queen Extravaganza, gaining acclaim for his uncanny ability to channel Freddie Mercury’s voice.
3. The Ultimate Queen Celebration (2017–Present)
Following his time with The Queen Extravaganza, Martel launched his own Queen tribute show, The Ultimate Queen Celebration, where he continues to perform Queen’s greatest hits.
4. Contribution to Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)
Martel’s voice was used alongside archival recordings of Freddie Mercury to recreate Mercury’s vocals in the Oscar-winning biopic Bohemian Rhapsody.
This contribution solidified Martel’s reputation as one of the most authentic interpreters of Mercury’s voice.
5. Solo Career
Martel has released solo albums showcasing his range as an artist beyond Queen tributes, including:
Impersonator (2014)
The Silent Night EP (2016)
Thunderbolt and Lightning (2018), a Queen cover album.
Musical Style and Legacy
Vocal Talent:
Martel’s voice is frequently compared to Freddie Mercury’s due to its range, power, and tone.
He is known for effortlessly transitioning between genres, blending rock, classical, and contemporary styles.
Versatility:
While much of his fame is tied to his work with Queen’s music, Martel has demonstrated a broader range through his original compositions and Christian music background.
Personal Life
Faith and Values:
Martel remains deeply connected to his Christian faith, which influences his personal and professional life.
Family:
He is married to Crystal Koster, and the couple resides in Nashville, Tennessee.
Awards and Recognition
Dove Awards with Downhere.
Global acclaim for his role in Queen tribute projects and Bohemian Rhapsody.
Recognition for his viral audition video, which remains a defining moment in his career.
Legacy
Marc Martel has carved a unique niche in the music world by bridging the gap between tribute performances and original artistry. His ability to channel Freddie Mercury’s legendary voice while maintaining his individuality has made him a standout figure in both rock and Christian music scenes. Martel’s contributions to preserving Queen’s legacy, coupled with his impressive solo work, continue to captivate audiences worldwide.