Lack of music talk. - I am not a great authority on folk music. I'm a singer/songwriter, I've been criticized somewhat in the past for talking too much about my own songs. But that's what I know about. I don't know the origins of Spancil Hill, or whether Bob Dylan was better then than he is now. So I don't talk about those things. I can't FORCE other people to talk more about music. If people want to talk more about music then they should get on with it. The perceived monopolizers are only filling the gap left by those who don't post about music. And I say perceived because in an open forum such as this there is NO MONOPOLY because anyone and everyone is free and encouraged to post whatever they so desire.
Too much irrelevant chat - There have been a certain number of irrelevant threads started by someone who seems determined to cause trouble. But most of it has been silly stuff which can easily be ignored. If it gets out of hand I am sure Max will deal with it just as he dealt with TTCM.
Dale Rose - If someone chooses to leave it's kinda sad, you could try sending him a personal message, telling him how you feel. I like him too, COME BACK DALE.
Bullying, no one ('cept our Max) has the right to tell anyone else what they can or cannot post. So if they try to tell you, they are just pissing in the wind, they can't bully you because they have no authority over you.
Women's Hearme - I think it's a great idea, no one can stop you if that's what you want to do - GO FOR IT. If others don't like the idea they don't have to tune in.
...should I just agree with everyone all the time? - Of course not. I love hearing what you have to say even if I don't agree with you all the time. Keep posting.