In this episode of Podsongs, host Jack Stafford brings together Griffin William Sherry, lead singer of Ghost of Paul Revere, and Maine-based forager, writer, and wild foods educator Jenna Rozelle. They dive into a captivating discussion on their love for the outdoors, the impact of the pandemic, transitioning from band life, and the intersections between hunting, foraging, creative writing, and poetry. Griffin shares insights about his music career and new solo project while Jenna reflects on her Substack, 'Appetites,' and the inspiration behind her poetry. Tune in to hear an enriching conversation that beautifully blends themes of nature, food, creativity, and artistic collaboration. Stay till the end for a song inspired by their discussion!
In this 14th 'Track by Track' episode of Podsongs, host Jack Stafford, and musicians Maurizio Sanicola and Luigi Falcione reflect on their inspiring musical journey across the last 12 episodes. They discuss collaborations with diverse artists like Atlas, EMA, and The Reverend Peytons Big Damn Band, inspired by fascinating interviews with guests such as dog trainer Linda Michaels, writer Ocean Vuong, and climber Sean Villanueva O’Driscoll. Tune in for behind-the-scenes stories and exclusive songs that blend various genres and unique instrumentation. Join the ride through memory lane and get insights into the creative process behind these impactful albums.
1) For the Love of Dogs by ATLYS (#157 Linda Michaels) 2) Riane (Made For Love) by EMA (#158 Riane Eisler) 3) Ayurveda Lifestyle Blues byJack Stafford (#159 Claudia Welch) 4) She's a Teacher by Acid Tongue (#160 Graham Hancock) 5) Lost Connections by Corey Kilgannon (#161 Johann Hari) 6) Time is a River by Raul Midón (#162 Thomas Lopez) 7) Are You Gonna Rise? (For LeVar) by The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band (#163 LeVar Burton) 8) We Are The Solid by May Erlewine (#164 Cheryl Strayed) 9) Recipe for Something Better by Svavar Knútur (#165 The Leftist Cooks) 10) Thresholds by Samana (#166 Anne Michaels) 11) Change or die by Ceschi(#167 Ocean Vuong) 12) Vertical Breath by Quentin Dujardin(#168 Sean Villanueva O'Driscoll)
Belgian guitarist Quentin Dujardin joins pro climber Sean Villanueva O’Driscoll on Podsongs to explore the link between music, creativity, and the art of rock climbing. From life lessons on Greenland’s big walls to finding rhythm on uncharted rock faces, this conversation dives deep into what it means to balance risk, artistry, and adventure.
Stream the song that resulted from the interview: https://ffm.to/verticalbreath
In this special episode of Podsongs, musician Ceschi Ramos sits down with award-winning writer Ocean Vuong (On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous, Night Sky with Exit Wounds) for a raw, deeply personal conversation about art, identity, music, and grief.
This is the kind of conversation that only results when two artists at the same level, but in different disciplines, can really judge and appreciate one another's work. And Ocean said Ceschi's insights were "the most accurate and kindest thing anyone has ever said about my work."
They explore their shared Connecticut roots, the influence of punk rock and hip-hop on their creative journeys, and the impact of family history, war, and loss on their work. From Buddhism and coping with trauma to navigating the commercial pressures of the creative industry, this dialogue offers profound insights into the intersections of music, literature, and personal history.
If you’re drawn to multicultural identity stories, poetry that cuts to the bone, and the uncompromising pursuit of authenticity in art, you’ll want to hear every minute
In this deeply reflective episode of Podsongs, musical duo Samana (www.samanaroad.com) — Rebecca Rose Harris and Franklin Mockett — engage in a soulful and thought-provoking dialogue with award-winning poet and novelist Anne Michaels, author of Fugitive Pieces (www.annemichaels.ca).
Topics Covered:
The role of solitude in the creative process
Art as ritual, healing, and transcendence
The subconscious mind and dreams as creative catalysts
Reflections on death, absence, and presence
Life in rural France, Italy, and Wales
The impact of technology on creativity
Indigenous wisdom, shamanism, and the unseen
The power of analog recording and emotional truth in music
Creating a new piece of music inspired by the conversation
This episode was recorded during Samana’s artistic residency in the French countryside, and culminates in a musical collaboration inspired by Anne Michaels and the themes of the conversation.Whether you’re an artist, writer, musician, or seeker, this interview will resonate with the part of you drawn to beauty, mystery, and meaning.Stream the song: https://ffm.to/thresholds
In this thought-provoking episode of Pod Songs, host Jack Stafford sits down with Icelandic singer-songwriter Svavar Knútur and Neil and Sarah from the YouTube channel Leftist Cooks for a wide-ranging conversation on empathy, activism, and the fight to preserve cultural identity through language and music.
Together, they explore how streaming platforms like Spotify contribute to the erosion of minority languages, why kindness and emotional intelligence are essential tools for social change, and how art and activism intersect in a divided world. Topics include ageism, implicit bias, feminism, sex positivity, the politics of inclusion, and the importance of embracing nuance in difficult conversations.
Whether you’re passionate about linguistic diversity, progressive politics, or the healing power of music, this episode offers rich insights and emotional depth.
https://www.svavarknutur.com00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:20 Catching Up and Personal Updates04:54 Discussing the Leftist Cook08:07 Reflections on Ageism and Society11:04 Life in Iceland and Touring Challenges13:28 Grandparenthood and Family Life14:20 Preparing for the Interview19:28 Welcoming Neil and Sarah21:02 Current Projects and Challenges24:55 Deep Dive into Feminist Texts and Sex Positivity28:14 The Core Principle of Helpfulness29:09 Navigating Epistemic Conundrums30:05 Addressing Anger and Moving Forward30:55 The Importance of Dual Perspectives33:08 Introducing the Leftist Cooks33:58 Challenging Ageism and Boomer Stereotypes37:34 The Complexity of Social Taboos45:09 Implicit Bias and Internal Struggles53:12 The Role of Art in Social Movements59:07 Redefining Happiness and Embracing Grief01:11:23 Engaging in Difficult Conversations01:14:57 Navigating Difficult Conversations01:15:50 Meeting People Where They Are01:17:21 The Importance of Diverse Voices01:18:48 The Challenge of Inclusion01:22:48 The Fragility of Human Emotions01:32:20 Cultural Genocide in Music01:35:39 The Power of Language01:40:34 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections
// SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL //Newsletter, donations and download the song for €/$1 @ https://podsongs.com// LINKS //Website: https://podsongs.comPodcast episodes: https://podsongs.com/podcast-episodesSongs: https://podsongs.com/musicSpotify artist: https://open.spotify.com/artist/32FYyRx1y1ex3jHHAgLMC7?si=4Nv7WW85SbSPZvCsj1o7IgSpotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6sN1viy82HPiNTVX2YBxpq?si=1b84c2b9bdea4656// SOCIAL //Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsongsInstagram: https://instagram.com/podsongsFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsongs
In this emotional and inspiring episode of Podsongs, host Jack Stafford brings together acclaimed author Cheryl Strayed (Tiny Beautiful Things, Wild) and beloved indie folk musician May Erlewine for a rare conversation on creativity, courage, and vulnerability.May shares how Cheryl’s deeply human writing shaped her latest album, and the two explore the connection between music and literature, emotional healing, activism through art, and navigating life as working artists and mothers.Whether you’re a fan of heartfelt storytelling, songwriting, or empowering conversations, this episode offers a profound look into the creative soul.
🎧 Stream the new song inspired by this episode: https://ffm.to/wearethesolid🔗
SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL //Newsletter, donations and download the song for €/$1 @ https://podsongs.com// LINKS //Website: https://podsongs.comPodcast episodes: https://podsongs.com/podcast-episodesSongs: https://podsongs.com/musicSpotify artist: https://open.spotify.com/artist/32FYyRx1y1ex3jHHAgLMC7?si=4Nv7WW85SbSPZvCsj1o7IgSpotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6sN1viy82HPiNTVX2YBxpq?si=1b84c2b9bdea4656// SOCIAL //Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsongsInstagram: https://instagram.com/podsongsFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsongs
Join us in this heartwarming episode of Podsongs where musician Reverend Peyton interviews the legendary American actor and director LeVar Burton. From the transformative impact of 'Roots' and 'Reading Rainbow' to his role as Geordi LaForge in 'Star Trek: The Next Generation', LeVar Burton's inspirational journey is laid bare. Reverend Peyton shares personal anecdotes on how Burton shaped his life, and Burton delves into his career, the importance of storytelling, and the influence of seminal figures like Fred Rogers and Gene Roddenberry. Don't miss this emotional conversation filled with admiration, insights, and a lot of heart. Listen to the end to hear the song 'Are You Gonna Rise?' which Rev was inspired to write after the conversation. https://ffm.to/areyougonnarise
LeVar Burton’s website: https://levarburton.com/
Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band website: https://bigdamnband.com/
00:00 Introduction to Podsongs
01:14 Reverend Peyton's Musical Journey
03:35 Overcoming Physical Challenges18:36 The Impact of LeVar Burton
29:53 LeVar Burton Joins the Conversation
48:13 The Impact of Stephen Hawking and Overcoming Disabilities
48:43 The Historical Significance of Reading and Kunta Kinte
51:15 LeVar Burton's Journey with Reading Rainbow
52:08 Meeting Mr. Rogers and Authenticity on Camera
55:38 Influential Figures: Alex Haley and Gene Roddenberry
01:01:55 LeVar Burton's Path from Seminary to Acting
01:08:40 The Audition Process for Roots
01:14:01 Challenges and Emotional Impact of Filming Roots
01:21:04 Reflections on History, Equality, and the Power of Truth
In this episode of Podsongs, acclaimed musician Raul Midon (https://www.raulmidon.com/) sits down with legendary radio producer Thomas Lopez to explore the art of audio storytelling. And to get inspiration for a brand new song https://ffm.to/timeisariver
Together, they dive into the world of binaural sound and its transformative role in creating immersive radio dramas. Thomas shares insights from his pioneering work at ZBS Productions (https://www.zbs.org/), including how he integrates music into stories like Ruby and Steam Dreamers. Raul reflects on his admiration for Thomas’s innovative techniques and discusses his own journey—from his early musical roots in New Mexico to his international success.
The episode culminates in the creation of an original song inspired by their shared love of soundscapes and storytelling.
Whether you’re a fan of audio dramas, an audiophile fascinated by binaural recording, or simply love great music, this episode is packed with inspiration.
Tune in to discover the magic of sound and how it can transport us to other worlds.
// SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL // Newsletter, donations and download the song for €/$1 @ https://podsongs.com // LINKS // Website: https://podsongs.com Podcast episodes: https://podsongs.com/podcast-episodes Songs: https://podsongs.com/music Spotify artist: https://open.spotify.com/artist/32FYyRx1y1ex3jHHAgLMC7?si=4Nv7WW85SbSPZvCsj1o7Ig Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6sN1viy82HPiNTVX2YBxpq?si=1b84c2b9bdea4656 // SOCIAL // Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsongs Instagram: https://instagram.com/podsongs Facebook: https://facebook.co
In this episode of Podsongs, musician Corey Kilgannon interviews acclaimed journalist and author Johann Hari to explore the deeper causes of depression and anxiety. Drawing from Johann’s groundbreaking book Lost Connections, they discuss mental health solutions that go beyond traditional treatments, focusing on the power of social connections, meaningful work, and community building.
Their conversation dives into topics such as the role of music therapy, sound healing with Tibetan singing bowls, and the creative process of songwriting. Johann shares transformative stories, including a protest in Berlin that redefined the power of community, while Corey reflects on the link between music and mental wellness.
The episode also touches on financial insecurity, the impact of “junk values,” grief, and the healing potential of self-care and social prescribing. Stay tuned to the end for an original song by Corey Kilgannon, inspired by their powerful discussion on depression, anxiety, and holistic health. 00:00 Introduction to Podsongs 00:19 Meet Corey Kilgannon 00:42 Touring and Transition 02:15 The Evolution of a Musician 03:54 Sound Healing and Day Jobs 06:33 The Role of a Death Doula 09:15 The Purpose of Podsongs 10:12 The Balance of Fame and Creativity 20:26 The Impact of Johan Harry's Work 25:25 Conversation with Johan Harry 47:47 Exploring Psychological Needs 49:02 The Impact of Junk Values 53:17 The Role of Music in Mental Health 58:32 The Grief Loophole and Diagnosis 01:06:22 Financial Insecurity and Depression 01:15:39 The Power of Community: The Kotti Story 01:30:17 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections
