Maya de Vitri: Embracing Creative Freedom

In this episode of Curious Goldfish, host Jason English interviews Maya de Vitri, formerly of The Stray Birds, about her deeply collaborative solo career. Maya shares insights into her creative journey, the evolution of her music, and the challenges she's faced transitioning from a band member to a solo artist. She also discusses balancing a career in music with practical life demands, her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, and her current projects. The episode concludes with Maya performing two heartfelt songs, "Ribbon" and "Working Man."

00:00 The Collaborative Solo Journey

01:11 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast

01:43 Maya de Vitri's Musical Evolution

02:01 Balancing Creative Career and Practical Life

02:06 Insights into Songwriting and Performances

02:39 Interview Begins: Meeting Maya in Nashville

02:55 A Week in Maya's Life

04:13 The Starbucks Experience

05:21 The Reality of Being a Musician

06:14 Producing Records and Service Jobs

07:49 Musical Family and Career Decisions

13:41 The Stray Birds and Americana Music

17:59 COVID's Impact on Creativity

20:36 Recording 'The Only Moment'

25:02 Exploring Song Interpretations

26:24 The Evolution of a Song

27:23 Touring Challenges and Strategies

31:05 Balancing Roles as an Independent Artist

37:20 Transitioning from Band to Solo Artist

44:36 Curiosity About Rest and Community

49:23 Musical Performance and Reflections

The Rise of The Belgian Blue: A Cross-Cultural Musical Journey

In this episode of Curious Goldfish, host Jason English interviews members of the European band The Belgian Blue. Formed through a unique blend of influences from Ireland, Austria, and the United States, the band merges varying musical heritages into a distinct sound. Lead singer and guitarist Padraig McMahon, banjo and guitar player Ian Strawn, and drummer Moritz Colin Bauer, each share insights into their musical backgrounds, their journey of forming the band, and the cultural nuances that shape their music. They also discuss the impact of streaming services on independent artists, the meaning behind their songs, and their plans for the future. Tune in to discover the intricate process behind their songwriting and the band's exciting ventures ahead.

00:00 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast

01:39 Streaming Platforms: A Double-Edged Sword

02:13 Meet The Belgian Blue

02:44 Band Members' Backgrounds

03:51 Reuniting in Montana

07:36 The Origin of The Belgian Blue

16:10 Musical Influences and Genre

20:52 The Power of Padraig's Voice

27:35 Songwriting Process

28:48 The Eclectic Mix of Belgian Blue

29:39 The Journey of Recording and Performing

31:00 The Story Behind 'The Bare Minimum'

32:44 Interpreting Lyrics and Personal Reflections

40:29 Upcoming Releases and Future Plans

42:17 The Importance of Intention and Curiosity

46:35 Individual Curiosities and Band Dynamics

53:07 Closing Thoughts and Future Performances

Exploring Evolution with TOW'rs: Celebrating 10 Years of Music and Transformation

In this episode of Curious Goldfish, host Jason English interviews Kyle and Gretta Miller of the Arizona-based duo TOW'rs. The conversation delves into the couple's reflections on their 10-year journey in music, encapsulated in their upcoming album 'Versions'. They discuss the evolution of their sound, their spiritual and personal growth, and the significant moments and perspectives that have shaped their relationship and artistry. Kyle and Gretta share candid insights into songwriting, intentional living, and navigating both challenges and joys in their musical and personal lives.

00:00 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast

02:51 Discovering TOW'rs: The Journey Begins

04:38 Kyle and Gretta Miller's Pros and Cons

10:04 The Evolution of TOW'rs Music

18:38 Faith and Personal Growth

29:28 Embracing Uncertainty in Faith

33:20 Inclusivity in Modern Christianity

34:31 Reflections on Spiritual Upbringing

37:15 The Evolution of Songwriting

43:02 Balancing Literal and Poetic Songwriting

46:33 The Influence of Parenthood on Music

54:42 Upcoming Album and Future Plans

56:18 Curiosity and Final Thoughts

In this heartfelt interview, Jason English sits down with John Driskell Hopkins, a founding member of the Zac Brown Band, to discuss his journey with ALS, his career in music, and the creation of the 'Hop for a Cure Foundation'. The conversation covers Hopkins' early music career, memorable moments with the Zac Brown Band, the impact of his ALS diagnosis, and his outlook on life and the future. Broadcasting live from Rock 'n Taco in Roswell, Georgia, the episode captures the resilience and positivity of an iconic musician facing a terminal illness.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections

01:48 Understanding ALS: A Devastating Disease

02:19 John Driskell Hopkins: A Mission to Cure ALS

02:53 Interview with John Driskell Hopkins

03:38 Early Music Career and Meeting Zac Brown

11:44 The Grind and Breakthrough Moments

14:11 Songwriting and Personal Insights

20:14 Living with ALS: Emotions and Coping

23:54 Hop on a Cure: Fighting ALS

27:59 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

Lauren Lucas: Balancing Music, Motherhood, and the Nashville Scene

In this multifaceted episode, host Jason English engages in an enriching conversation with musician Lauren Lucas. They explore her versatile career in the music industry, from her digital releases since 2004 to performing at notable venues like the Bluebird Cafe. Lauren delves into her roles as a performer, songwriter, teacher, and podcaster, providing an insider's view of the music business. The discussion covers her childhood influences, journey from community theater to earning a Tony nomination, and balancing motherhood with a dynamic career. Insights into her songwriting process, the emotional depth of her song 'Motherlode,' and the importance of honesty and collaboration in co-writing are shared. They also touch upon maintaining romance in a busy marriage, the community of Nashville, and teaching songwriting's impactful simplicity. As the episode wraps up, Lauren unveils her future plans and performs an original song called "Motherlode," leaving listeners inspired by her dedication and creativity.

00:00 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast

00:41 Meet Lauren: Early Career and First Releases

02:01 Performing at the Bluebird Cafe

02:32 The Magic of the Bluebird Cafe

06:39 Lauren's Diverse Career Journey

12:17 Balancing Motherhood and Music

14:27 Writing Across Genres

19:03 The Inspiration Behind 'Motherlode'

25:56 Keeping the Spark Alive in Relationships

30:39 The Importance of Being in Nashville

34:38 Networking in Nashville

34:45 Teaching Songwriting at Belmont University

35:44 Can Anyone Write a Song?

36:05 Student Experiences and Growth

39:29 The Truth in Country Music

41:52 Teaching Metaphorical vs. Literal Writing

44:38 Songwriting Exercise and Feedback

57:16 The Co-Writing Process

01:01:03 Future Plans and Projects

01:03:49 Live Performance

Resilience and Revival: The Lindi Ortega Story

In this transcript, musician Lindi Ortega shares her challenging yet inspiring journey through career setbacks, personal losses, and a triumphant return to music. After struggling with faulty in-ear monitors that led to vocal issues, anxiety, and a hiatus from performing, Lindi rediscovered her passion for music. Her resilience is showcased in her new album 'From the Ether,' characterized by its personal and innovative sound, diverging from her traditional country roots. Lindi also discusses her personal experiences with marriage, divorce, and healing through creativity, highlighting her growth as an artist and individual. At Americana Fest 2024, she relaunches her music career under a new recording label, embracing new beginnings and projects with renewed confidence and curiosity about life and art.

Curious Goldfish is a Music Podcast About More Than Music. Inspired by Ted Lasso.

00:00 Introduction: Lindi Ortega's Struggles and Comeback

01:46 Lindi Ortega's Unique Musical Journey

02:33 Overcoming Vocal Challenges and Anxiety

03:21 New Beginnings: From Painting Houses to New Music

03:53 Americana Fest 2024 and New Album Launch

05:09 Rediscovering Confidence and Overcoming Stage Fright

09:54 Personal Losses and Resilience

10:30 Exploring Themes of Ghosts and New Music

12:01 Dating Post-Divorce and Personal Insights

13:34 The Creative Process and Future Plans

25:27 Conclusion and Performance

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Embracing Complexity: Faith, Music, and Self-Discovery with Andy Gullahorn

In this episode of the Curious Goldfish podcast, host Jason English engages in a deep conversation with musician Andy Gullahorn, exploring the intricate web of personal beliefs, life challenges, and the confluence of faith and music. Key discussions highlight the importance of understanding different perspectives, the influence of personal experiences on belief systems, and the subtle shades of life's complexities beyond black and white views. Andy reflects on his journey as an artist, focusing on personal growth, vulnerability, and his song 'Different Now.' The episode also examines lessons from a Christian upbringing, humor in songwriting, and upcoming music projects. Themes of self-discovery, overcoming adversity, and the transformation into one's true self are interwoven, illustrating that resilience and embracing failures lead to genuine self-realization. Ultimately, the conversation offers insight into Andy's perspective on community, creativity, and personal evolution, promoting kindness, patience, and compassion as essential virtues.

Curious Goldfish is a Music Podcast About More Than Music

00:00 Introduction: Embracing Complexity in Life

01:42 Exploring Trauma and Spirituality in Art

02:30 Meet Andy Gullahorn: Musician and Storyteller

03:31 Soccer Stories and Fatherhood

07:18 Current Projects and Creative Process

11:21 Themes of Compassion and Rehumanization

20:32 The Role of the Church and Personal Growth

27:54 Reflecting on the Song 'Different Now'

36:26 Navigating Resentment in Relationships

37:33 Therapeutic Power of Music

39:14 The Good Kid Syndrome

42:11 Balancing Humor and Depth in Songwriting

50:27 The Impact of Vulnerability in Songwriting

55:43 Reflections on Rich Mullins and Christian Music

01:07:02 Curiosity and Community

Authenticity and Spirituality: Jennifer Knapp's Musical Journey

This episode examines the profound journey of Jennifer Knapp, a renowned former contemporary Christian music artist. Rising to fame in the late 1990s, Jennifer discussed her roots in the Christian music industry and her groundbreaking decision to come out as a lesbian. The discussion delves into her spiritual growth, self-acceptance, and advocacy work in the LGBTQ community. Jennifer also highlights her latest project, 'Kansas 25', celebrating the 25th anniversary of her debut album. Additionally, the episode explores broader themes regarding the intersection of LGBTQ identities with religious institutions, emphasizing the need for inclusive spiritual spaces. The conversation ends with a musical performance symbolizing the acceptance of one's true self.

00:00 Rebellious Resistance and Audience Success

01:45 Larry King Live: Jennifer Knapp's Courageous Appearance

03:02 Jennifer Knapp's Journey: From Kansas to Music Stardom

04:16 Reflecting on Kansas and Midwestern Roots

07:20 Kansas 25: Revisiting the Debut Album

15:39 Navigating Faith and Identity

29:30 The Depth of Songwriting and Spiritual Exploration

42:17 Navigating Faith and Identity

45:43 The Conditionality of Love

47:50 Reflections on Childhood and Resilience

50:59 The Complexity of Relationships

54:04 Musical Evolution and Rediscovery

57:02 Collaborations and Inspirations

01:01:57 Challenges and Advocacy in Faith Communities

01:06:38 A Painful Media Experience

01:12:21 The Journey of Self-Acceptance

01:14:45 Musical Performance: Diamond in the Rough