Dear Iris east texas grit Ep. 330

About this episode

Pete Kotzbach interviews the Texas-based band Dear Iris about their music journey and the challenges of balancing touring with everyday life.

On this episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, host Pete Kotzbach sits down with rising Texas-based country rock band Dear Iris for an honest conversation about music, travel, sacrifice, and chasing a dream while managing real-life responsibilities. Forged in the heart of East Texas, Dear Iris delivers a powerful blend of Texas country music and alternative rock grit. From the driving energy of “Kylie’s Song” to the emotional depth of “Restless On You,” the band’s sound is rooted in authentic storytelling and shaped by the miles they’ve logged on the road. Their music reflects both where they come from and where they’re headed — grounded in Texas soil but reaching for something much bigger. What makes this episode especially compelling is the band’s transparency about the reality of being an independent touring band. Dear Iris doesn’t tour full-time — they tour around day jobs, family commitments, and real-world responsibilities. During the week, they’re clocking in at work and showing up for their families. When time allows, they load up the gear, hit the highways, and bring their music to audiences across Texas and beyond. In this conversation, the band opens up about: · Balancing…

People in this episode

Guest: Dear Iris

Topics covered

• music
• travel
• sacrifice
• independent touring
• Texas country music

Keywords

• East Texas
• country rock
• authentic storytelling
• balancing careers
• mental challenges

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Dear Iris

Books & works: The Travel Wins Podcast, Kylie’s Song, Restless On You

Places: texas, East Texas

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