ep29 Tyson Boyd sells optimism
released November 20, 2025
1:46:39

Tyson Boyd, a prominent figure in Edmonton’s music scene, discusses his multifaceted career as a venue owner, concert promoter, and talent buyer. Starting with Alberta’s local bands and transitioning to working at prominent venues like the Starlight Room, Tyson highlights the challenges and passion driving the live music industry. He reflects on the evolution of audience habits, the impact of economic changes, and the importance of sustaining local music communities. Tyson's journey underscores the significance of small venues and developing artists amidst a shifting industry landscape.

Guest website: https://starliteroom.ca/ Guest website: https://concertworks.ca/en/

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

chapters

00:00 Introduction

03:57 Conversation with Tyson Boyd

19:02 Challenges in the Music Industry

26:50 Tyson's Musical Beginnings

38:36 Early Influences and Formative Years

39:32 Transition to the Oil Field and Festival Adventures

40:06 Discovering the Local Music Scene

40:27 First Steps in Promoting Shows

41:46 Career-Ending Injury and New Beginnings

42:43 Pursuing Arts and Cultural Management

43:39 Balancing Day Jobs and Night Gigs

44:35 Starting a Concert Company

47:01 Challenges and Evolution in the Music Industry

49:31 The Role of Venues and Community Building

52:46 The Financial Realities of Promoting Shows

57:58 Impact of Societal Changes on the Music Scene

01:04:18 Optimism for the Future of Live Music

01:21:57 The Role of Music in Community Building

01:22:52 Changing Demographics at Folk Festivals

01:23:22 Encouraging Community Engagement

01:23:51 Reflecting on the Conversation

01:23:55 Tyson Boyd's Career Journey

01:25:49 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep28 Greg Gillespie is my bestie
released Nov 13, 2025
1:40:26

Greg Gillespie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greg_gillespie/

In this heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation, Glen Erickson sits down with longtime friend and collaborator Greg Gillespie—videographer, musician, and dad. The episode explores the unique bond between Glen and Greg, tracing their shared history from church music circles in Edmonton to creative adventures in Vancouver, Iceland, and beyond.

Together, they reflect on:

• The journey from making music to supporting the music community in new ways
• The importance of staying connected to creativity, even when it’s not a full-time career
• Navigating FOMO, ambition, and the evolving meaning of “success” in music and art
• The value of being an “ambassador of culture” and the unsung heroes who keep local scenes alive
• How spiritual backgrounds and the search for transcendence shape their relationship with music
• Memorable stories from their time making records, touring, and filming documentaries—including their trip to Iceland for “Iceland Calling”
• The power of live music, community, and empathy in a changing world

The episode is a candid, unscripted conversation between friends who have seen each other through decades of creative pursuits, personal growth, and the ever-changing landscape of music and art. Whether you’re a musician, a fan, or someone who loves a good story about friendship and following your passion, this episode offers insight, humor, and inspiration.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Trainsleeper (Greg’s music project)
• F&M, The Wheat Pool, and other Edmonton/Vancouver music connections
• Jonathan Anderson / Jonathan Inc (producer)
• “Iceland Calling” documentary project
• Reflections on Spotify Wrapped, playlist culture, and the joy of discovering new music

Connect with us:

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:39 Catching Up with Greg

03:37 Revisiting Old Memories

07:08 Musical Journeys and Church Influence

12:32 Creating and Collaborating in Music

38:47 Transition to Video Production

42:22 Balancing Passion and Practicality

45:59 The Importance of Community in Music

49:35 Dealing with FOMO and Creative Desires

54:04 Reflecting on the Music Industry

55:00 Balancing Passion and Practicality

55:50 The Importance of Music Communities

56:20 Personal Integrity in Music

56:48 The Role of New Sounds

57:11 The Impact of Familiarity

57:33 Sharing Music and Experiences

58:44 The Iceland Documentary Project

01:02:18 Ambassadors of Culture

01:03:10 The Struggle of Creatives

01:08:39 Spirituality and Music

01:25:37 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep27 Ryan Langlois + Jonah David with intention
released October 30, 2025
01:53:24

Glen Erickson sits down to talk with musician Ryan Langlois and his son, emerging artist Jonah David, unraveling their intertwined musical paths. Ryan reflects on his rapid fame with the Boom Chucka Boys, the struggle between seeking art and notoriety, and the challenges of balancing career and family. Contrastingly, Jonah shares his journey from early country influences to discovering his own R&B sound in Vancouver, along with his multi-faceted efforts in creating art, music, and launching a clothing line. Both father and son explore themes of artistic intention, the complexities of fame, and the art of authentic expression.

Ryan Langlois website: https://www.ryandlangloismusic.com/

Ryan Langlois Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryan.langlois.music/

Jonah David Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjonahdavid/

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson

Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

03:15 Catching up

04:39 Ryan's Early Musical Influences

19:35 Jonah's Musical Upbringing

21:38 Jonah's Path to Music

35:23 The Boom Chucka Boys Era

42:20 Balancing Fame and Family

45:59 Childhood Memories and Parental Influence

46:59 Realizing the Impact of a Musician Parent

47:57 Balancing Family and Career

50:09 Pursuing Music Independently

53:05 Finding a New Musical Direction

53:39 Moving to Vancouver and Musical Growth

57:45 Collaborations and Musical Projects

01:14:24 Exploring Multiple Art Forms

01:28:23 Finding Identity Beyond Music

01:28:49 The Concept of Capital V Value

01:29:36 Challenges of Performing and Finding Peace

01:30:53 Struggles with Validation and Imposter Syndrome

01:34:48 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep26 The Wheat Pool reunites
released October 23, 2025
2:27:20

The Wheat Pool

“Delicate tales of life masked beneath amped-up Canadiana; a songwriter’s band, stirring the irreverent spirit of Neil Young in their sturdy indie-rock stride; evolved alt-country by four guys busting their ass.”

In this special episode of "Almost Famous Enough," host Glen Erickson reunites with his former bandmates from The Wheat Pool — Robb Angus, Mike Angus, and Stephane Dagenais—for an in-depth, heartfelt, and often hilarious conversation about their journey as a band, their music, and the enduring bonds of friendship.

Key Topics & Highlights:

• The Wheat Pool Story: The band reflects on their origins, the meaning behind their name, and the unique arc of their career from 2005 to 2012, including two albums and an EP.
• Life After the Band: Each member shares what they’ve been up to since the band’s last show, including career changes, family life, and new creative pursuits.
• Band Dynamics: The group reminisces about touring, recording, and the rare chemistry that kept them close—highlighting both the fun and the challenges of life on the road.
• Songwriting & Albums: Deep dives into the making of their records "Township" and "Hauntario," the evolution of their songwriting, and the role of producers in shaping their sound.
• Favorite Songs: The band and fans discuss their favorite Wheat Pool tracks, the stories behind them, and what makes certain songs so meaningful.
• Fan Questions: The episode features questions from listeners and family, including a touching moment when Glen’s daughter Alexi asks the band to play at her future wedding.
• Band Breakup & Legacy: Honest conversation about why the band ended, the realities of the music industry, and the emotional impact of moving on.
• Reunion Shows & The Future: Reflections on their reunion gigs, the possibility of new music, and what it would take for another show or album.
• Tour Stories: Memorable (and sometimes horrendous) sleeping arrangements, favorite venues, and the camaraderie that made it all worthwhile.

Guest website: https://www.thewheatpool.com
Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewheatpool/

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:59 Reunion and Reflections

07:07 Life After the Band

11:05 Touring Tales and Challenges

15:37 Band Dynamics and Personal Growth

35:42 Reflecting on Early Band Days

36:29 Memorable Gigs and Band Conflicts

39:06 Songwriting and First Album

43:56 Recording Challenges and Evolution

48:09 Personal Stories B

ep25 Shaela Miller likes to garden
released October 16, 2025
1:30:43

Shaela Miller discusses the evolution of her music career, her commitment to staying true to herself, and the importance of authenticity in her artistry. She shares stories of her early musical influences, the impact of her community support, and the challenge of balancing personal life with career demands. Highlighting her resistance to the pressures of social media and industry expectations, Miller emphasizes creating music from the heart. She also talks about her work with youth in songwriting camps and her plans for new music. The conversation is peppered with genuine, unfiltered moments that showcase Miller's unique personality.

Guest website: https://shaelamiller.com/
Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaelamiller/
Guest youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ShaelaMillerVEVO

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson

Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:19 Welcome and catching up

05:33 The Importance of Stage Presence

13:27 Shaela's Musical Journey Begins

16:53 Mentorship and Community Support

18:32 Balancing Music and Personal Life

36:49 The Role of Social Media in Music

48:46 Teaching the Next Generation

54:38 Mentorship and Bonding Through Music

55:43 The Importance of Authenticity in Art

57:07 Reflecting on Musical Evolution

01:00:02 Balancing Artistic Integrity and Fan Expectations

01:02:22 Navigating Live Performances and Audience Reactions

01:05:57 The Role of Band Dynamics in Musical Growth

01:09:42 Recording and Producing New Music

01:10:04 Challenges and Rewards of Working with a Partner

01:13:00 Shoutout to the Band

01:15:36 Upcoming Projects and Future Plans

01:18:08 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep24 Joelle May is on the Scene
released October 9, 2025
1:44:35

Summary:

Joelle May delves into her unique career transition from the oil and gas industry to becoming a prominent figure in the music business. She recounts her journey, starting with her work as a publicist and the creation of her company, Mod May Productions. Throughout her career, Joelle has worn many hats, including roles in management, grant writing, and festival organization. Now, as the GM of New Motor Records, Joelle explains the label's rebranding and future plans. She shares insights on enduring industry challenges, highlights the importance of networking, and reflects on the evolving landscape of live music venues.

Key Topics & Highlights:

• Her unexpected start in the oil and gas industry and the skills she transferred to music business.
• The leap from corporate life to founding her own publicity company, Mod May Productions
• The evolution of music publicity: from mailing CDs and calling local newspapers to navigating blogs, digital platforms, and playlist curators.
• The challenges and rewards of running a label, including the transition from Sakamoto Music to New Motor Records
• Insights into building authentic industry relationships, the realities of “friendships of convenience,” and the impact of the pandemic on social and professional connections.
• Joelle’s experiences as a woman in the music industry, the support of organizations like Women in Music Canada

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:46 Catching Up with Joelle

05:44 Joelle's Musical Journey

13:42 Transition from Oil and Gas to Music

15:43 Starting a Publicity Business

37:52 The Riskiest Roles in the Music Industry

38:39 Taking the Leap with Sakamoto

39:33 Rebranding and Relaunching the Label

43:41 Memorable Moments in the Music Industry

45:19 The Hustle and Challenges of Publicity

48:53 Navigating Relationships in the Music Business

01:09:47 Current Projects and Future Plans

01:14:37 Industry Role Models and Sexism

01:15:39 Experiences with Misogyny

01:17:36 Supportive Women in Music

01:19:07 Leadership and Decision Making

01:20:06 Career Reflections and Skills 01:25:13 Future Plans and New Signings

01:28:27 Podcasting and Networking

01:30:25 Post-Fame with Alexi

Links & Mentions:

Guest website: https://newmotorrecords.com/who-we-are/

Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modmayjoelle/

Connect with the Show:

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson

Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com

AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough

Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and share.

ep23 Kelsi Mayne deserves this
released Oct 2, 2025
1:20:59

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Glen Erickson interviews Canadian country artist Kelsi Mayne. Kelsi shares her journey from Windsor, Ontario, growing up in a creative family, and balancing a career in nursing with her passion for music. She discusses the pivotal moments that led her to pursue music full-time, the challenges of breaking into the country music scene, and the resilience required to keep going through personal and professional setbacks—including releasing her debut album at the start of the pandemic and navigating heartbreak and loss.

Kelsi opens up about her songwriting process, the influence of artists like Miranda Lambert, and how her diverse background in dance, athletics, and the arts has shaped her unique sound. She talks about the vulnerability in her latest single, “Someone Who Knows,” and the importance of authenticity in her music. The conversation also explores the realities of building a career in country music, from radio tours to festival circuits, and the affirmations and setbacks that come with the territory.

Key Topics:

Creative upbringing and family influences
Transition from nursing to music
Navigating the Canadian country music scene
Overcoming setbacks: pandemic, personal loss, and resilience
Songwriting process and finding her voice
The story behind “Someone Who Knows”
Gender dynamics in music and career transitions
Upcoming projects and what’s next for Kelsi
Artist Links:

Website: https://www.kelsimayne.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsimayne/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KelsiMayne

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:51 Interview with Kelsi Mayne Begins
00:03:18 Kelsi's Current Projects and Life in North Bay
00:07:17 Kelsi's Musical Influences and Early Career
00:11:04 The Role of Family and Early Inspirations
00:20:54 Transition to Songwriting and Guitar
00:33:17 Navigating the Country Music Scene
00:38:28 Overcoming Personal and Professional Challenges
00:51:10 Heartfelt Reflections on Family and Songwriting
00:51:36 The Power of Connection and Performance
00:52:07 Podcast Purpose and Family Legacy
00:53:11 Discussing the New Single: Someone Who Knows
00:54:17 Exploring Songwriting Techniques and Themes
00:55:48 Deep Dive into Male Psychology and Mental Health
00:59:45 The Art of Disguising Truth in Songwriting
01:03:13 Recording and Producing New Music
01:08:03 Future Plans and Upcoming Projects
01:12:05 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude
01:13:14 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep22 Fake Shark new monster
released September 25, 2025
1:15:44

Hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
Guest: Kevvy (Fake Shark)

Episode Overview:

In this episode of Almost Famous Enough, Glen Erickson explores Kevvy's intriguing path in the music industry, from his early band Fake Shark Real Zombie to the evolution of Fake Shark. Kevvy highlights his songwriting experience with Carly Rae Jepsen, producing comedy specials, and balancing multiple creative roles. Discussing the challenges of reinventing a band's identity, Kevvy shares insights into music production, the impact of live shows, and building lasting connections in the industry. This episode offers an inspiring look into the dedication and passion required to thrive in music.

Key Topics & Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction
03:16 Catching Up with Kevvy
04:10 Touring and Performing Experiences
08:05 Kevvy's Side Hustle in Comedy
09:22 Challenges and Realities of Music Production
10:41 Kevvy's Breakthrough and Early Struggles
14:07 Comedy Production and Collaborations
23:04 Balancing Music and Personal Life
28:03 Inspiration and Musical Influences
42:46 The Indescribable Feeling of Performing
42:58 Advice for Aspiring Artists
43:58 Struggles and Determination
44:26 The Importance of Fan Support
45:25 Refining Performance Skills
46:28 The Value of Collaboration
47:25 Navigating the Entertainment Industry
50:02 Impactful Collaborations
57:12 Current Projects and Successes
01:00:33 Reflecting on the Journey
01:02:12 Post-Fame with Alexi

Links & Resources:

• Website: fakesharkmusic.com
• Instagram: @fakesharkofficial
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@fakeshark

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

Connect with the Show:

• Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
• AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
• Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Thank you for listening!

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