Ep. 259 – From Tattoos to Tailgates: How Geena Russo Created NEPA’s Wildest Country Festival

Ep. 259 – Geena Russo: From Tattoos to Tailgates – Building NEPA’s Wildest Country Music Festival

In Episode 259 of The Popko Project Podcast, I sit down with Geena Russo, founder of the River Wave Country Music Festival and co-owner of the beloved 570 Tattooing Company. This episode dives deep into how Geena took her passion for music, love for community, and DIY spirit to create one of NEPA’s fastest-growing country music festivals—held at the nostalgic Moonlite Drive-In in Wyoming, PA.

Geena opens up about everything from her roots in the tattoo industry to the challenges of organizing a two-stage music festival that celebrates local and regional talent. You'll hear about her mission to keep ticket prices affordable, her dream of booking national acts, and the kind of pure, positive energy that makes River Wave so much more than just a show.

🎸 The 2026 festival lineup features acts like JD Brook Band, The Heartstrings, Jase Matthews Band, John Bower, Michael Elward, and more. It’s a celebration of country, community, and creative grit.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, music fan, or just love seeing passionate people bring big dreams to life, this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Stream the full episode now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube.

Brought to you by:

• Keller’s Garden Center & Landscaping Services
• Ionic Development
• The V-Spot Bar
• Scotch Sauce Hot Sauce – Use code POPKO at checkout to save on Happy Boy hot sauce!

🟡 Explore more episodes on the Popko Project Podcast archive 🟡 Want to see who's been on the show? Check out our past guests