Dallas Music, Baseball Dreams & a Life on Stage | YDC Ep 233 | Robert Lee Kolb

Mike Rhyner sits down with Dallas music legend Robert Lee Kolb for a wide-ranging conversation spanning decades of life on the road, in the studio, and on the field. Kolb shares wild stories from his Louisiana youth, including getting run out of town after a disastrous gig, his days playing the Dallas club circuit at spots like the Randy Tarr, and how a song called Pony Up launched a 19-year career producing live entertainment at SMU. From baseball championships to surviving the Vietnam draft lottery to finding faith, this is a rich and entertaining portrait of a true Texas music journeyman.
00:00:01 – Cold Open & Show Kickoff
The hosts trade chaotic pre-show banter before officially launching the episode.
00:01:16 – Introducing Robert Lee Kolb
Mike Rhyner welcomes longtime Dallas music scene fixture Robert Lee Kolb and digs into the origin of his unusual name.
00:05:56 – Growing Up in North Louisiana
Robert Lee Kolb shares stories of his Bossier City childhood, the regional divide between North and South Louisiana, and his early years playing in the Mad Hatters.
00:10:41 – Baseball Dreams and Musical Beginnings
Kolb recounts his serious youth baseball career and how music gradually entered his life through his father’s guitar and a desire to escape fourth-grade class.
00:20:05 – Building a Career on the Dallas Music Scene
Kolb traces his early band history, the venues he played, and the grind of working the Dallas club circuit through the seventies.
00:30:45 – Mid-Show Read: CBD House of Healing
Mike Rhyner delivers a sponsored segment for the CBD House of Healing’s full spectrum salve stick.
00:34:26 – Nineteen Years at SMU and Building a Production Empire
Kolb details how a song called “Pony Up” led to nearly two decades running entertainment and production operations for SMU athletics.
00:45:48 – Getting Lost and Finding His Way
Kolb reflects candidly on a decade of bad decisions, the pull of rock and roll, and lessons learned from confusing popularity with prosperity.
00:50:01 – Playing Today and Closing Thoughts
Kolb shares his current gig at the Balcony Club, the joy of small rooms, and why he’s finally stepping back from the hustle to enjoy music again.
00:56:15 – Show Wrap-Up
Mike Rhyner thanks Robert Lee Kolb, asks listeners to share the podcast, and signs off.