Curious Goldfish

Maya de Vitri: Embracing Creative FreedomIn 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 Journey01:11 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast01:43 Maya de Vitri's Musical Evolution02:01 Balancing Creative Career and Practical Life02:06 Insights into Songwriting and Performances02:39 Interview Begins: Meeting Maya in Nashville02:55 A Week in Maya's Life04:13 The Starbucks Experience05:21 The Reality of Being a Musician06:14 Producing Records and Service Jobs07:49 Musical Family and Career Decisions13:41 The Stray Birds and Americana Music17:59 COVID's Impact on Creativity20:36 Recording 'The Only Moment'25:02 Exploring Song Interpretations26:24 The Evolution of a Song27:23 Touring Challenges and Strategies31:05 Balancing Roles as an Independent Artist37:20 Transitioning from Band to Solo Artist44:36 Curiosity About Rest and Community49:23 Musical Performance and Reflections

The Rise of The Belgian Blue: A Cross-Cultural Musical JourneyIn 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 Podcast01:39 Streaming Platforms: A Double-Edged Sword02:13 Meet The Belgian Blue02:44 Band Members' Backgrounds03:51 Reuniting in Montana07:36 The Origin of The Belgian Blue16:10 Musical Influences and Genre20:52 The Power of Padraig's Voice27:35 Songwriting Process28:48 The Eclectic Mix of Belgian Blue29:39 The Journey of Recording and Performing31:00 The Story Behind 'The Bare Minimum'32:44 Interpreting Lyrics and Personal Reflections40:29 Upcoming Releases and Future Plans42:17 The Importance of Intention and Curiosity46:35 Individual Curiosities and Band Dynamics53:07 Closing Thoughts and Future Performances

Exploring Evolution with TOW'rs: Celebrating 10 Years of Music and TransformationIn 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 Podcast02:51 Discovering TOW'rs: The Journey Begins04:38 Kyle and Gretta Miller's Pros and Cons10:04 The Evolution of TOW'rs Music18:38 Faith and Personal Growth29:28 Embracing Uncertainty in Faith33:20 Inclusivity in Modern Christianity34:31 Reflections on Spiritual Upbringing37:15 The Evolution of Songwriting43:02 Balancing Literal and Poetic Songwriting46:33 The Influence of Parenthood on Music54:42 Upcoming Album and Future Plans56:18 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 Reflections01:48 Understanding ALS: A Devastating Disease02:19 John Driskell Hopkins: A Mission to Cure ALS02:53 Interview with John Driskell Hopkins03:38 Early Music Career and Meeting Zac Brown11:44 The Grind and Breakthrough Moments14:11 Songwriting and Personal Insights20:14 Living with ALS: Emotions and Coping23:54 Hop on a Cure: Fighting ALS27:59 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

Lauren Lucas: Balancing Music, Motherhood, and the Nashville SceneIn 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 Podcast00:41 Meet Lauren: Early Career and First Releases02:01 Performing at the Bluebird Cafe02:32 The Magic of the Bluebird Cafe06:39 Lauren's Diverse Career Journey12:17 Balancing Motherhood and Music14:27 Writing Across Genres19:03 The Inspiration Behind 'Motherlode'25:56 Keeping the Spark Alive in Relationships30:39 The Importance of Being in Nashville34:38 Networking in Nashville34:45 Teaching Songwriting at Belmont University35:44 Can Anyone Write a Song?36:05 Student Experiences and Growth39:29 The Truth in Country Music41:52 Teaching Metaphorical vs. Literal Writing44:38 Songwriting Exercise and Feedback57:16 The Co-Writing Process01:01:03 Future Plans and Projects01:03:49 Live Performance

Resilience and Revival: The Lindi Ortega StoryIn 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 Comeback01:46 Lindi Ortega's Unique Musical Journey02:33 Overcoming Vocal Challenges and Anxiety03:21 New Beginnings: From Painting Houses to New Music03:53 Americana Fest 2024 and New Album Launch05:09 Rediscovering Confidence and Overcoming Stage Fright09:54 Personal Losses and Resilience10:30 Exploring Themes of Ghosts and New Music12:01 Dating Post-Divorce and Personal Insights13:34 The Creative Process and Future Plans25:27 Conclusion and PerformanceYLFBC711mKEiwaCVzKus

Embracing Complexity: Faith, Music, and Self-Discovery with Andy GullahornIn 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 Music00:00 Introduction: Embracing Complexity in Life01:42 Exploring Trauma and Spirituality in Art02:30 Meet Andy Gullahorn: Musician and Storyteller03:31 Soccer Stories and Fatherhood07:18 Current Projects and Creative Process11:21 Themes of Compassion and Rehumanization20:32 The Role of the Church and Personal Growth27:54 Reflecting on the Song 'Different Now'36:26 Navigating Resentment in Relationships37:33 Therapeutic Power of Music39:14 The Good Kid Syndrome42:11 Balancing Humor and Depth in Songwriting50:27 The Impact of Vulnerability in Songwriting55:43 Reflections on Rich Mullins and Christian Music01:07:02 Curiosity and Community

Authenticity and Spirituality: Jennifer Knapp's Musical JourneyThis 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 Success01:45 Larry King Live: Jennifer Knapp's Courageous Appearance03:02 Jennifer Knapp's Journey: From Kansas to Music Stardom04:16 Reflecting on Kansas and Midwestern Roots07:20 Kansas 25: Revisiting the Debut Album15:39 Navigating Faith and Identity29:30 The Depth of Songwriting and Spiritual Exploration42:17 Navigating Faith and Identity45:43 The Conditionality of Love47:50 Reflections on Childhood and Resilience50:59 The Complexity of Relationships54:04 Musical Evolution and Rediscovery57:02 Collaborations and Inspirations01:01:57 Challenges and Advocacy in Faith Communities01:06:38 A Painful Media Experience01:12:21 The Journey of Self-Acceptance01:14:45 Musical Performance: Diamond in the Rough