Chatworthy

Joined by Michael Crafter once again we talk all things 25-Year Tour — what to expect, whether Winston will return the favour, and how the band plans to pay tribute to Sean, celebrating his legacy and time in I Killed The Prom Queen.Crafter also reflects on community, giving back through charity work , creating bonds and special moments that last well beyond the stage.

 In this episode, I am joined by @mikisimans filmmaker and member of hurtdivisionband @gravemindau  @annihilistmetal  We dive into the real life of film freelancers — staying fresh of mind, how commercial gigs can open doors (and wallets), the power of networking, and staying humble. We talk saying no to work, gear tips, data management must-knows, and spotting burnout before it hits. Of course, we talk about THAT Parkway Drive gig. A real chat about the grind and rewards of the film/music industry.

In this episode, I'm joined by Cherry from Defences (UK) to dive into their powerful new album, Shadowlight. We explore the theme of shadow work—facing your inner world, compartmentalizing, and identifying major life events that shape us. We bond over our shared love for screamo music and get real about what it's like being a female metal singer. Cherry shares her journey of learning to scream, and we fangirl hard over icons like Courtney LaPlante, Tatiana Shmayluk, and Hayley Williams. Tune in ! photo @lucycheynephoto

I chat with Josh from The Juliana Theory about the band's impact on surf/skate culture, what to expect on their upcoming Australian tour, and their hunt for local food and drink while on the road. We dive into balancing family life with music, guitar as his safe space, and being a non-drinker. Find out what shoegaze bands he's into , some of his favourite Aussie bands like Tired Lion and Wax, and his occasional vampire book indulgence. A super grounded convo with a genuinely awesome musician—don't miss it!  https://thejulianatheory.com @joshfiedler Photo by: @joshuammyers

In this episode, I'm joined by homegrown talent Liam Guinane from *Windwaker* to explore the vibrant world of "hyper pop metal" . We dive into embracing flaws as fuel, prioritizing authenticity over people-pleasing, and the transformative power of self-reflection. Liam opens up the importance of genuine, non-transactional connections in the face of success, and the dangers of being placed on a pedestal. We also share a moment over our mutual love for *The Cure* and tackle the risks of stereotyping in music and beyond. *Windwaker* are set to headline a tour around Australia in February before heading back to the USA with *Make Them Suffer* and *Like Moths to Flames*. Don't miss their new single *APATHY*, out today—head over to Triple J to hear it now! https://windwakerband.com @windwakerofficial

In this episode, my good friend Jono (aka Ooi) and I dive into the topic of mental health, something we both felt deeply during the COVID pandemic. We've always been passionate about mental well-being, especially within the music community—particularly the genres we grew up with. With a little push from Jono, I figured out how to bring our conversations to life through this podcast, and the rest, as they say, is history. This episode holds a special place in my heart as it was the first one I had to migrate over. Rest in peace to the best human I know, with an unmatched taste in music.

Geoff Rickly, known for his music in Thursday and No Devotion, ventures into the literary realm with his autofiction debut, "Someone Who Isn't Me." Drawing parallels to a contemporary Dante's Inferno, Geoff discusses his odyssey through heroin addiction, highlighting the transformative hope discovered in the unconventional drug ibogaine. We also chat about storytelling nuances, emphasising the significance of a unique perspective and the art of "finding the funny." This is such a compelling chat - enjoy. photo by Jesanne Rechsteiner

Dan Santat, a Caldecott Medal-winning illustrator, is undeniably one of the most captivating individuals I've ever spoken to. From a microbiology degree to a thriving career in the arts, he shares insights garnered from teachers and iconic figures like Stan Lee. We discuss cementing your own style, facing anxiety, dealing with executives and how his family influences his work. I'm envious that he can say "Jake Gyllenhaal slid into his DMs" as we talk collaboration on their recent book “The Secret Society of Aunts and Uncles” which explores treasured  relationships outside the immediate family. You can find all his works at all good book stores!

Belinda Bromilow, an Australian acting legend known for her roles in "Packed to the Rafters," "McLeod's Daughters," and "Rake," has recently enchanted audiences as the delightfully eccentric Aunt Elizabeth in the TV hit, "The Great." In this episode, we delve into Belinda's acting journey, where she shares insights on building authentic connections, relieving self-imposed pressure, exploring creative outlets and managing nerves when collaborating with different levels of talent. Plus, I owed it to my teenage "skins" loving self to ask about Nicholas Hoult and count how many times we use the word dreamboat in this segment! Belinda's advice is a goldmine for those in the creative field, especially actors. Enjoy the conversation! Photo credit: Rebecca hitch (@rebeccahitchphotography)

Actress Victoria Nieves is definitely one to watch in this space as she successfully tackles theatre, radio and film. She discusses her trajectory into the world of acting, the journey so far, what she is looking forward to and the essential tools she relies on to better her skillset. I also have the great privilege in seeing her bring Tess from my script, Heartbreak Under a Neon Streetlight to life. We also rant a little about tv shows, do our best critique of our recent broadway adventures and of course, we fangirl over WICKED. She stresses the importance of story and a great scene partner. A great listen for those who love to support the arts and those working their way to reach great heights. @flickyourvic

On this episode I am joined by the truly beautiful Jessica Hendy as she talks about her one woman musical based on her life and the mental health that follows; Walking With Bubbles . She discusses how to write your truth when tackling deeply personal and difficult topics , that we should look for the theatrical arc and ways to include the audience to create art that leaves an impact. She also shares a great piece of wisdom from her Aunt " hope for hope" when navigating turbulent phases of your life, finding a meditation that works for you and the importance of retaining your brain. This musical was the highlight of my New York trip - and I see a lot of shows! If you can get to it, it is such a critical and heartfelt show that is incredibly evocative. In my opinion, this show must be seen all over the world - let's get it there. As with all theatre there is such a team involved so feel free to show them some love, they have the best hearts and they are beyond talented. Go see it, listen to this, share it, start conversations and enjoy x

* please note this episode contains content that discusses suicide - listen with caution* "Survival is triumph enough" - Harry Crews. It's one of Ben Hutcherson's favourite quotes and an apt obe for this podcast. We talk about pets and the many benefits they can bring to your life especially in regards to mental health. Ben shares so much wisdom from his therapists question of "Do my feelings fit the facts" to discussing suicidal ideation and of course his personal insights into having major depressive disorder. An incredibly thoughtful and self aware guest who will no doubt impart listeners with useful tools and insights for their own process. PHOTO : Jason Sinn

A great discussion with @frankturner who is heading back down under soon (late March/April) and has a new record in the works.He discusses navigating those in-between stages of life and draws upon T.S Eliot's wisdom, “dealing with stuff that isn't your fault but is still your problem” in family units, drowning in shame, balance in friendships and knowing when it's time to cut someone out of your life...plus find out what music he is excited about! Photo Credit: Ben Morse https://frank-turner.com

My first guest for 2023, Miles Baker, guitarist for Interloper and Voidbringer, opens up discussing his challenges with attention and memory, specifically how he tackles misplacing items, forgetfulness and how that contrasts to his focus for music and guitar work. We discuss responding to the multitude of communication channels, do they really have ADD/ADHD or is it a behavioural issue or an excuse? Panic attacks, wasting time, never becoming complacent, exploring orchestral music and upcoming tours and what to expect this year from him. @milesdimitribaker @interloper @voidbringer photo - Nicole dib photography

Find out what Emmy Award winning Writer/Executive Producer David Mandel has been working on, why you need to build a bulletproof writing outline for your script, how Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld assisted in developing his comedy writing skills in the Seinfeld era, the importance of writing partnerships, creating and maintaining the frenetic pace of comedy, his creative partnership with Julia Louis - Dreyfus, why do we need so many executive producers these days?, stealing props, his podcast the stuff dreams are made of on props and that backstory to the Dubonnet lipstick in VEEP! Peppered with wisdom, insights, tales from the set and anecdotes, this is one for all lovers of comedy, TV and writing.

*Heads up : this episode talks at length about drugs, addiction, suicide* In this incredibly raw chat, Kelllii Scott, drummer for FAILURE ( and a host of other bands) shares that the drugs/substances are not the problem, you are. He talks about 12 step programs, asking for help, leading by example, taking accountability and addressing your issues. We agree that connection is everything, integrity and showing up is vital. Real changes mean that your actions and worlds line up, otherwise your word means nothing and you continue to betray yourself. This may hit hard, but it is an absolutely a necessary dialogue to listen to. We do talk about music too! - drumming and creativity I find out finally what that "mystery snare" is , do I find out what " The Nurse who loved me" is about? and how Louise from Veruca Salt getting him back into music. If I had my way, I would play this to everyone because the messaging is so potent and so critical right now. We all have levels of addictions, we all create narratives...what's yours?

Join by Timo of Oceans we talk about the exciting upcoming album due out 25th November and then dive into how being personable to fans is paramount, connecting with them and ensuring they continue to seek the appropriate and/or professional help if needed. The benefit of partnering with smaller organisations /not for profits to continue to raise much needed awareness and offer support such as "The ocean in your mind" . He discusses music saving his life, the need for routines, journalling and exercise as part of his mental health tool kit. He also shares how he is quite closed with communication and " afraid of phone calls" but uses music as an outlet for this and if you are similar or have avoidant tendencies, how you can approach seeking support. Finally we talk about the amazing narrative and involvement that the label nuclear blast are having with their artists on mental health, female related matters and a host of other issues.

I'm so grateful for this candid discussion with Drea and Gaby from The Venomous Pinks. Drea lets us into her private world explaining the recent struggles on the European tour with her mental health and how the band dealt with this. She discusses feeling dead inside, lacking motivation and how she was able to shift out of this place. We look at post tour recovery, managing overwhelm and how their song " Hold On" has become somewhat of an anthem now to them as they manage their mental health struggles by, "pushing through and holding on" as well as a useful tool of a "code word" to alert mental health situations. Some lessons learnt from touring with the legendary Dead Kennedys and a beautiful discussion around the heart/heart chakra and how to access this to reach new limits in their creative process. We also talk about phrases that piss us off when going through a mental health moment and all the good stuff too like what we can expect from them in the near future.It really is so special when people let you into their space and I am always so deeply moved by this. xxx

Do you like to laugh out loud? If so, you probably know about Pinky Patel - PTA Mum/Mom turned comedian and content creator. Nothing was off limits and Pinky doesn't shy away from anything. From wet spots, fairy bread, Ed Sheeran, Spiders, Periods and more! We talk about how art and crafts are cool, our love for Seinfeld and the comedy in the every day and how crowns and lip balm became a part of Pinky's iconic look. On the serious side (but still of course peppered with humour) she discusses the balance of being a Mum/Mom and her life BSM ( before social media) and ASM ( After social media), the lessons she has learned from creating content, energy levels on tours, meeting her fans expectations, the need for us to stop putting each other down and truly finding what makes you happy. This was such an enjoyable, compassionate and entertaining chat. To check out her tour dates and what's up next swipe across or visit her instagram for links. @pinkypatelofficial

Nik Nocturnal is a professional solo music artist (guitar), is in the band Termina and is a successful content creator of all things that encompass the world of metal music. He can be found on several platforms such as Twitch and YouTube and does fantastic metal reviews, reactions, memes and original music. If you like metal and you like laughing then definitely check him out. On this episode we talk about the evolution of his content and its growth, ways to do it yourself and collaborating along the way and some of the key learnings of this process. We talk about "taking the piss" ( Australian for: making fun of yourself) as a creative tool and persona as well ad dealing with the unfortunate side of trolls and negative feedback.Nik discusses how it's important to strike the balance between serious and silly as well as backing yourself. If you've thought about creating content of any kind, then this chart provides insights about psychology, algorithms, traction and retention and also is entertaining. Check him out on the below platforms: https://m.twitch.tv/niknocturnal https://www.youtube.com/c/NikNocturnal @niknocturnal @terminaoffical

Joined by the effervescent Jen from Making up for glossed time, who refers to herself as an " unexpected influencer", we jump in and chat about expressing ourselves creatively through clothes and make up, what to do when you like so many styles and genres, how to dress with changing bodies and insecurities, our nostalgic love for TV show "Susannah and Trinny", breaking the habit of buying black clothes and the importance of community and inclusivity and how her instagram has created a culture that embodies this. I also pick Jen's brains on hacks for dealing with inner thigh chaffing ( if you get it...you know!), current trends and she walks me through the lessons I learnt from a dress that still has the tag on it. She is available for consults in person and online and her content is fun and educational so please check her out if you haven't already. She is truly fabulous and we hope you enjoy our chat x

Always a pleasure to be joined by one of my favourite guitarists, Dan Baune of Devil's Train and Lost Sanctuary. As is often the case with our conversations, we cover a diverse spectrum such as looking at the theatrical pairings of sex and music on stage and in a musical context, burlesque, pole dancing, accepted levels of erotica and the dialogue around misogny vs empowerment. We talk about 7 strings, double necked guitars, props on stage, his role as an Engineer, helping bands find their sound and we question, is there such a thing as an original sound anymore or is it all just a copy of a copy aka as the philosophical theory coined by Baudrillard, simulacra. Super excited and looking forward to the new Devil's Train album, Ashes & Bones. Check them out! https://www.facebook.com/devilstrain https://www.facebook.com/dan.baune.lost.sanctuary/

A great yarn and a bit of giggle with homegrown comedian, Mel Buttle. On this episode Mel gives some great insights on how to get into comedy and discusses her personal journey. She addresses the need for an online presence, being an extroverted introvert, dealing with flight or fight and being mindful to avoid borrowing material or mimicking artists you enjoy. We also have an EXCLUSIVE reveal of Tik Tok Mum's name!!!! SO exciting! You can catch Mel at the Brisbane Comedy Festival in May or head over to her instagram and Tik Tok for fun content and updates of where you can catch her upcoming performances.

The Simpsons are undoubtedly one of the most iconic comedy TV shows that we will ever see. On this episode I'm joined by Bill Oakley who is an exceptional TV comedy writer best known for The Simpsons ,as well as Andrew Carey and Jason Southwell from the band, Evergreen Terrace. It was an absolute pleasure to revisit some of our favourite moments and lines from The Simpsons, revisit how the show influenced each of us, find out who the hardest characters were to write for, discuss global snacks, ponder what space would taste like and muse over the future of TV writing and the industry. Bill has been referred to as "the Gordon Ramsey of fast food" in recent times as his passion for reviewing fast food takes off. Bill reveals some exciting things he has in the pipeline and to keep updated and entertained on what Bill is exploring head over to @thatbilloakley on instagram, same handle on twitter.

What is it really like to be a successful writer, producer or showrunner in Hollywood? I am joined by the masterful David H. Steinberg who is incredibly generous with his time to the script writing community and shares many insights on this podcast episode. David provides practical advice that is useful to all creatives, not just writers. Covering topics such as writer's room structures, the benefits of working on multiple projects at once, NFT's and the potential role they will play in the film and tv industry, imposter syndrome as well as busting a few myths. David has a great platform on twitter in which he is always assisting, mentoring and supporting script writers. If you love his comedy works, you will want to hear this! Twitter @DavidHSteinberg

A nostalgic podcast on all things video games as I'm joined by two awesome humans (who happen to be in bands I enjoy), Jason Southwell of Evergreen Terrace and Scott Mellinger from ZAO. Tune in as we relive tales of Nintendo, Sega, PC and Commodore 64 quests, discuss our gaming habits such as “rage quitting” and the games that induce it - like Madden. We offer a lighter perspective on gaming and the positive benefits it offers to our cognitive capabilities as well as noting the importance to check your mental health before playing. Jason and Scott also divulge stories of tours and the camaraderie between each other and their respective bands . If you want to nerd out, reminisce and have a laugh then give this a listen. Photo: Chris Pamatian @evergreenterraceoffical @zaoband

I'm back.... and that's because of the wonderful Scott Mellinger, lead guitarist of ZAO (I loveeeee them!) who joins me for a really sincere chat. Covering topics of anxiety, expression through musical instruments, how to reconcile and start the healing process of repairing friendships and connections as well as all the usual music stuff! Scott probes me on what being an empath really feels like and offers his tips and tricks for navigating self defeating thoughts. A truly genuine and kind-hearted person who has plenty of valuable things to say. So grateful to you. https://officialzao.bandcamp.com/ photo by @ liberate justice entertainment

Sooooo excited about this one! Whoo Scandinavian Metal Time ! Join me as I chat to Andreas from Danish metal band, CABAL. On this episode we talk about the momentum of the Danish metal scene and some bands to look out for, the highs of performing, managing stress and its effect on the physical body as well as dealing with seasonal affective disorder - coping with those long winters and the importance of vitamin D. We talk about how At The Gates have been so influential to many of the bands we both love and reminisced over ( Unearth, Bleeding Through, Killswitch Engaged, Evergreen Terrace,IKTPQ, Every Time I Die) Struggling with self worth, the importance of connection and the practice of remaining humble. Please check them out if you like anything remotely crushing! I can't get enough of them and let's get them to Australia!

Rap Artist, Christian Ford joins me on this podcast for something a little different! A truly fascinating discussion that covers everything from his Rap influences like Eminem to connecting to your higher self to his love of basketball. A great discussion around putting the mind/ego in the corner and connecting into the heart space, feeling the feelings and daring to be vulnerable. His approach to clearing his own depression rather than reaching outside of himself and for temporary measures is a great listen. Christian delivers facets of his life and hardships with a rawness that I hope inspires others to do the same and encourages self awareness. To check out Christian you can find him @c4dxworld - link to his spotify is in the bio. Enjoy x

We're baaaccck. Nearly a year on and now everyone knows about the Free Britney movement (whilst we have been banging on about it for years!) It is my pleasure to be joined again by my friend Ryann, who is informed and compassionate, is an integral force within the Free Britney Movement and who is a passionate advocate for mental health and disability rights. During this episode we get an update on where we are at with the conservatorship, we talk about the importance of supported decision making and having those hard conversation about the decisions you want for your health and the importance of understanding wills, guardianships, power of attorney and how advanced health directives can take a lot of stress out of these situations. Of course we speculate and chat about her instagram and all things Britney, the wider aspects of mental health and how therapy doesn't always work for those of us who are neurodivergent. @ryannthesagittarius

Trent is a mental health advocate for the Rise Foundation, is the vocalist in Sydney Hardcore band, Relentless and my friend. On this episode we get nostalgic about concerts and tours, discuss what's happening in the hardcore scene within Sydney/Australia as well as what being a mental health advocate entails; ensuring words and actions align. He talks of the embrace of the hardcore community and maintaining relationships with once mentors and influencers that are now friends (namely Josh James, Jesse Barnett, Scott Vogel & Andrew Neufeld) We discuss the necessity of having a support network and resources within your mental health tool kit. A reminder to check in on the checkers and that situations like domestic violence and mental health are currently heightened. With the announcement of Sydney's extended lockdown please look after each other and yourselves. For additional resources see phone numbers in photos above. https://www.therisefoundation.net @trentless

Alexandra Zerner is a progressive rock/metal guitar player, multi-instrumentalist and composer from the Czech Republic. She frequents the lists of women who shred and I am such a fan of her work and delighted to talk with her beautiful and detailed mind. We discuss the intersection of magic, science and spirituality. Our love for other worlds created through genres of sci fi and steampunk and our love of Tolkein and his Norse connection. All her albums are a whole production with accompanying books full of hidden meanings. Her latest album “Silhouette” is a conceptual album dealing with her shadow self. She talks openly about her own depression, imposter syndrome and the pressure of performing with the likes of Dream Theatre. Perhaps the highlight is her compelling personal philosophies on a variety of topics. https://alexandrazerner.com @alexandrazernerrocks https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvIs6eUvdPC4PgLj5irvclg

On this episode Porter McKnight of metal band Atreyu discusses the Twitch community and the use of this platform for the release of their new album, Baptize. We also discuss tips for those new to meditating, easing into esoteric topics through the channeled works of Abraham Hicks and digestible reading material such as The Celestine Prophecy and Journeys out of the Body. Magick and rituals of the sun and moon, normalising spiritual abilities and dropping judgements around topics with stigmas attached. We take a dive into astral projection and discuss the great collaborations on this album with the likes of Travis Barker, Papa Roach's Jacoby Shaddix and Trivium's Matt Heafy. Enjoy this explorative chat.

Warning this podcast is mostly about science with a tiny bit of music in the mix! You will most definitely learn something. There's a lot of plant and tree chatter...and that's because Milo has a background in molecular biology. He shares a favourite book called “The Overstory” which is a novel written about tree communication and is mind opening fiction. He also talks about his academic peers in Greg Graffin (Bad Religion) and Dexter Holland (Offspring) and the riffing of ideas and how their studies shape their music, adaptogens, plant medicine, plus a natural remedy for all those singers/screamers out there. If you like plants, science and nature then this one is for you. There's also some exciting releases in the pipeline music wise which he details too. Go hug a tree!

Joined by prolific punk rock artist Chris Shary (Descendents, Blink 182) we discuss the rewards of being tenacious, creating every day no matter how small, gifting your skills/art to others simply to give, finding a partner that supports and complements your work as well as the crucial role of teachers in creating an oasis for students. Of course there's some punk and comic book chatter in the mix which were huge influences to him. Some wonderful wisdom in this episode. To support and check out his art please go to https://chrisshary.bigcartel.com or his instagram @chrisshary

Leslie Holt's Neuro Blooms project began with her mixed media paintings based on brain scans of people experiencing different mental health conditions. She was compelled by the beauty of PET scans, as well as their power to convey the brain's role in mental illness.The pins and accompanying art spark conversations about the causes and stigmatizing myths surrounding mental illness. We discuss her art as well as the distinction between advocacy and awareness, good art teachers, engaging exhibitions, colour therapy and the fusion of science and art and what happens when they collide! If you are an artist ( in any capacity of that word) and struggling with creativity and your mental health, have a listen to Leslie's kind and sound advice. She has some exciting works on the horizon too. I love the arts so much and all it does for my mental health and expansion. Such a simple pleasure that I have always appreciated. Please support or check out her work and support other creators and #startaconversation https://www.neuroblooms.com

On this episode we talk to Dan Weyandt of ZAO. Exploring anger issues - reading the physical and mental cues, dealing with anger fantasies, applying the wisdom of stoics and their philosophical principles in taming anger. A psychotherapy tool that he found success with for anxiety was EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) for those perhaps not responding to other topics. An exploration about death and “strange” experiences and encouraging the notion that it's ok to discuss these without any additional “crazy” stigmas. We also look at the role and impact of medication . As always we discuss music and the new album The Crimson Corridor as well as other artists and creative mediums we enjoy, namely David Lynch. We hope this reaches whoever it needs to x To connect with ZAO https://www.facebook.com/ZAO.Official/

If you're a fan of a good love story... you will love this chat! We chatted for 3 hours (don't worry the podcast is not that long) and just when you think we are wrapping up we got going again! It's a journey. Join me as I chat to this absolute legend, Brad Moxey, drummer extraordinare to several bands including JB Crockett and Evergreen Terrace. We muse about why some bands get massive, the juxtaposition he faces being in bands with differing genres (country/metal),line dancing, all things drumming and some fun music tales. There's a whole lot of love discussed on topics such as attraction, compassion, facilitating evolving growth in partnerships, maintaining hope, not settling and looking at what love is ...and more importantly, what it isn't. We change gears to look at being a parent and managing having a child with Autism, what that entails and the lessons they teach us. Brad is simply wonderful and I loved this chat sooooo much we hope you do too x photo @agahairesis https://www.jbcrockettlive.com @evergreenterraceofficial @moxeydrums

Teenage Bottlerocket bass player Miguel Chen, talks to us about his Yoga for punks practice - which are online classesthat he created with his wife. He also explains how yoga became an integral part of his lifestyle, we share a few key (easy to do) yoga poses that can assist with your emotional wellbeing. We also chat about Tales from Wyoming, getting kids into yoga and some music stuff. The prop we talk about for inversions is this @feetup and there are pictures of me using it (yes in a dress and listening to Tool!) If you have been wanting to check out yoga for a bit give Yoga for Punks a go. Miguel brings the zen. Yoga doesn't have to be intense and there are so may benefits to your physical and mental health by doing it. Give it a go... just 10 mins a day can make dramatic shifts. https://blossomyogaschool.teachable.com @yogaforpunks

Elizabeth Sneed runs Curvy Surfer Girl which is reinventing the surfer girl image, where every girl is welcome. During this chat we talk about our own insecurities, especially in the water and when it comes to our love of surfing, being comfortable, what helps us and the areas we still get stuck on when it comes to self worth. There is nothing worse than letting your body image chatter get in the way of doing what you love ( and it happens waaaaaaay more than we might care to admit!) We hope that the water can be a place of less judgement and more enjoyment so that everyone can feel the stoke! To connect with Liz go to @curvysurfergirl https://www.curvysurfergirl.com

Warning - this podcast talks at length about suicide and surrounding topics that impact mental health in a very transparent manner. Please check in with yourself before listening. I am joined by Australian metal/hardcore icon, Michael Crafter, who has witnessed the tragedy of suicide repeatedly and sadly again, very recently. Neither of us are professionals, but we draw upon our own experiences such as reaching rockbottom and reactions when discussing suicide. This is an emotional chat covering the many factors and elements that contribute to the state of our mental health. By talking about it we can heal, we can shift our energy we can feel supported. We encourage you to listen ( it's a little long), as hard as it might be, so that if you are ever confronted with this topic you can take on board some of the suggestions here, realise you are supported and that your feelings are valid. The key takeaway from Crafter is this: Talk, connect and talk some more. Make the time. It does help. Thank you Crafter for being unapologetically you. Much love and please keep talking x Lifeline is a 24 hour assistance line in Australia 13 11 14

On this episode I am joined by guitarist Daniel Baune of British metal band Monument and he also has his own album Lost Sanctuary coming out soon. We address dealing with panic attacks, performance anxiety and reframing mistakes on stage, the perils of toxic positivity and the need to feel the feelings. There's a large chunk of geeking out over guitar and talking about expressive players and his influences and our love of the likes of Arch Enemy and In Flames. It's peppered with perspectives and musings on topics such as the recipe of making it in metal, exploring the darker concepts of suffering for your art, nihilism, relying on substances for stage fright, romanticising pain, groupies and external validation. It's a little longer because we just enjoyed chatting so much and hopefully you enjoy listening to it :) http://bit.ly/dan_baune-s_lost_sanctuary_lost_sanctuary Photo - Karoline Hanna

Join Russ Rankin from punk bands Good Riddance & Only Crime as we chat about the differences between hope and expectations, reflect upon releasing the need to control and identifying that the only thing we can truly control is ourselves. He identifies that being of service is a great way to keep focussed and helps with his long term sobriety. We talk about his writing, his love of the hard times and some solo music due to come out so keep your eyes peeled! Of course we discuss political ongoings and how his song writing wants to address the systemic underpinnings impacting the USA as opposed to specific events. As it's International Women's Day coupled with his love for hockey, we talk about its growth in the USA and hopefully this trend continues in many sports across the board. We hope you take something from this to assist your healing. Enjoy x http://grpunk.com Photo by Alan Snodgrass

Aaron Dalbec of BANE, Be Well & Only Crime opens up about filing the void and the depression that settled in after Bane's final days, how he coped and how he found the motivation to join another band with his friends to create Be Well. We chat about using distractions to keep us from processing our emotions, the importance of true friendship bonds and not being afraid to reach out and talk about anything and everything that you might need to. Aaron approaches these topics with an unfeigned and honest manner. We hope it helps x photo by @jcphotomedia

Agnostic Front's bass player, Mike Gallo, joins me on this episode as we discuss all aspects of his, the process and the many and varied types of art we admire. He has a distinct style that draws on street art, graffiti and pop culture. There's no shortage of cultural references such as Skeletor, hardcore Care Bears, Oogie Boogie and Boondocks Saints to name but a few. You'll have to endure our mutual Pete Steele (RIP) from Type O Negative admiration (my swooning) and of course we chat about what's ahead on the music side of things. Some of the artists referenced to check out and support are : @grafitiloser @riskrock @sen2figueroa @queenandreaone Mike's page @mikegallo1975 https://gallo-originals.com/ @agnosticfrontnyc

Join the effervescent front man of Cancer Bats, Liam Cormier on this episode. Chatting about his indoor skate ramp, straight edge as a launch pad to assist with a healthier lifestyle, dirt bike riding as a form of meditation and being present as well as the importance of side projects to continue creative evolution. We discuss strategies for when your the one not drinking/partying and the stigma that is often attached to that - as well as trusting yourself in those situations to know your own boundaries. He also discusses his clothing brand Treadwell clothing and how having different hobbies prevents a stagnant mindset. Photo - Dan Dennison To connect check out these links https://treadwellclothing.com https://www.cancerbats.com @cancerbats @treadwellclothing

Join Dave Hause, American singer- songwriter who currently performs both solo and with his band The Mermaid, as we discuss our younger years at school and religious upbringings, albums that are challenging to revisit as our mental health shifted such as The Downward Spiral ( still a masterpiece) , how and why seeing a therapist can benefit you as well as avoiding oblivion via any addictive aspect and choosing healthier options as a way of moving forward. To connect with Dave @davehause http://davehause.com

Privileged to sit down with Australian Film Director Alex Proyas ( The Crow, Dark City, I, Robot). On this episode Alex talks about his new studio that he funded called Heretic Foundation, pushing through projects during the pandemic, producer offset, coproducing, insights into the Australian industry, his latest short film, Mask of the Evil Apparation and pipeline projects as well as how to avoid burnout and tools he uses to deal with the all encompassing stress that making a movie brings. Alex's links https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYO7h2SOZjRah8bhyOXtGHw https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001639/

You know when you just connect with someone? Well, that happened with the impassioned Stacey Dee of BAD COP BAD COP. Join us on this emotionally charged talk about conquering cancer, committing to self love, trusting the universe, taking personal responsibility and her incredible friendship with @fatmike . She discusses the importance of the language we use to describe ourselves to assist us achieving alignment. This is a very transparent talk about recovering from her Xanax addiction, making amends and shifting her vibration and energy to one of positivity. She is now also part of the organisation the sidewalk project in LA which through various mediums, including art, music, film & public health, our group aims to be socially active and to empower houseless communities around the world. A beautiful person with a beautiful message. Enjoy x To connect check out the links below @staceyisrad @badcopbadcop @the_Sidewalk_project_oc https://www.thesidewalkproject.org

Shawna Potter, front person of feminist hardcore punk band, War on Women and author of her must have book, "Making Spaces Safer: A Guide to Giving Harassment the Boot Wherever You Work", joins me as we discuss the the five "Ds" of bystander intervention. She talks about the role of everyone in achieving safer spaces for all. The book is practical, non preachy and a must for looking out for each other and ourselves. She also shares what the band has been up to, what to expect on her new podcast " but her lyrics" and what she's been binge watching doing during lockdown. To connect with Shawna visit: @shawnapotterwow @waronwomen https://shawnapotter.com https://www.facebook.com/ShawnaPotterOfficial/ https://www.patreon.com/shawnapotter/ Get the book at all the usual places!

Chuck Ragan is a singer, songwriter and guitarist known for his solo work, he is a member of Hot Water Music and has collaborated with many , many artists and it is an absolute pleasure to have a transparent chat with him. On this episode we explore the importance of connecting to nature, especially for young children and talk about the organisation Cast Hope that he is involved with. We look at finding your alignment and following your heart. It's a beautiful, heartfelt chat. To connect with the organisation referenced visit: https://www.casthope.org To connect with his music visit http://chuckraganmusic.com http://www.hotwatermusic.com To connect with his fishing trips head to @chuckragan on Instagram and email