Ever wondered what it's like to be thrust into the limelight at just 15, only to have the rug pulled out from under you? Join us as we sit down with the incredibly gifted Tristan McIntosh, who shares her whirlwind journey from Nashville roots to American Idol fame and beyond. Tristan opens up about discovering her singing talent at a tender age, her intense yet rewarding stint on American Idol, and how she bounced back after the show's unexpected tour cancellation. Listen to her recount collaborations with industry titans and how she learned to roller skate for a role in Sam Hunt's music video "23."

Imagine performing at a venue owned by a rock legend while a friendly dog roams the bar area. We chat with Tristan about her memorable gig at Daryl's House in Syracuse, New York, and the enchanting atmosphere it offers. She also gives us a peek into her life as an independent artist, maintaining a vibrant social media presence on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Tristan shares the challenges of staying independent, the invaluable lessons from her time on American Idol, and her unforgettable performance at the Grand Ole Opry with Darius Rucker.

But that's not all—our conversation takes delightful detours into favorite Linda Ronstadt songs, the joys of keeping a blue-tongue skink as a pet, and aspirations for global travel. From her bustling performance schedule and late-night gigs to her hobbies like skateboarding and collecting vinyl records, Tristan paints a vivid picture of her daily life. We touch on childhood memories, love for fantasy fiction, and the excitement surrounding her upcoming single, "Burn the Bed," featuring Kim Carnes. Tune in for a heartfelt episode that underscores the power of passion, perseverance, and family support in chasing dreams.

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