Creative Renaissance: Marcus Hummon's Artistic Journey & Emily Dickinson CollaborationIn this episode of the Curious Goldfish podcast, host Jason English engages in an enlightening conversation with Hall of Fame songwriter Marcus Hummon. Known for iconic country hits like 'Bless the Broken Road' and 'Cowboy Take Me Away,' Marcus delves deep into his latest project 'Songs for Emily,' where he sets the poetry of Emily Dickinson to music. Marcus discusses his creative process, his admiration for strong feminine figures like Emily Dickinson and his wife Becca, and his experiences writing both three-minute songs and full-scale operas and musicals. The conversation also touches on Marcus's collaborative works with artists like Mary Chapin Carpenter, Darrell Scott, and Sarah Evans, his fascination with transformative storytelling, and the inspirational journey behind his hit song 'Bless the Broken Road.' Tune in for an inspiring dive into the life and mind of a true musical Renaissance man.00:00 Introduction to Dickinson's Appeal01:03 Welcome to Curious Goldfish01:38 Meet Marcus Hummon: The Creative Powerhouse02:22 Marcus Hummon's Musical Journey02:36 The Magic of Songwriting03:10 Connections in the Music Industry03:46 Collaborations and Inspirations07:05 Emily Dickinson's Influence08:52 The Process of Setting Poetry to Music11:45 Exploring Emily Dickinson's Legacy25:17 Character Inspiration from High School25:35 Religious Influence in High School Sports26:37 Americana Fest and Lifetime Achievement Award26:58 Expanding the Dickinson Mojo29:46 The Process of Storytelling in Music33:48 The Magic of Songwriting39:40 The Journey of 'Bless the Broken Road'47:21 Curiosity and Artistic Exploration50:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Louie the Singer on Touring, New Album, and Overcoming Life's Challenges | Curious Goldfish PodcastJoin host Jason English on Curious Goldfish as he sits down with Louie the Singer to discuss his new album 'One for the Hometown', his preparations for a nationwide tour, and his journey through life's ups and downs. Louie talks openly about the struggles of balancing personal life with his career, the inspiration behind his emotional songs, and his deep connection with his fans. Discover the impactful stories behind his music, his experiences growing up in Fort Worth, Texas, and how he navigates the complexities of being a Mexican American artist in the country music scene.00:00 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast00:41 Interview with Louie: New Album and Tour02:03 The Emotional Journey Behind 'If I Die Tomorrow'04:16 Louie's Artistic Process and Authenticity06:34 Growing Up in Fort Worth13:40 Challenges and Identity in the Music Industry19:28 Message of Hope and Resilience21:06 Reflecting on 2018: A Year of Loss and Guilt22:24 Father-Son Bond: Lessons and Memories23:20 Parenting Challenges and Personal Growth23:52 Coping with Loss and Finding Faith25:59 Prison Life and Musical Aspirations27:33 Post-Prison Life: Coping Mechanisms and Family30:30 Preparing for the Biggest Tour Yet32:38 Future Aspirations and Overcoming Challenges39:01 Curiosity and Fatherhood: Balancing Career and Family41:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Tony Dekker of Great Lake Swimmers Talks New Album, Songwriting, and Life on Tour | Curious GoldfishIn this episode of Curious Goldfish, host Jason English sits down with Tony Dekker of Great Lake Swimmers to discuss the band's ninth album, Caught Light. Tony shares insights into the instinctive songwriting process, the unique recording environment of a converted farmhouse, and the challenges of touring post-pandemic. He reflects on the band's endurance over two decades and the impact of family life on his music. The conversation also touches on the themes of loneliness, the importance of community, and how the recording location influences the artistic output. Tune in for an in-depth look at the creativity and resilience of a seasoned musician.00:00 Introduction to Songwriting Instincts00:55 Welcome to Curious Goldfish01:36 Meet Tony Dekker of Great Lake Swimmers01:40 Discussing the New Album 'Caught Light'02:00 Challenges Faced by the Band02:22 Tony Dekker Reflects on Longevity02:37 Interview Begins: Tony Dekker's Journey03:29 Touring and Feedback on 'Caught Light'05:13 Songwriting Process and Themes07:40 Impact of Politics and Permitting on Touring12:28 Recording in Unique Locations19:37 Themes of Loneliness and Connection21:19 Pandemic's Impact on the Band24:02 Connecting with Fans Post-Pandemic28:50 Curiosity and Parenthood31:31 Conclusion and Future Outlook

A Conversation with Americana Legend Webb Wilder | Curious Goldfish PodcastJoin host Jason English on the Curious Goldfish Podcast as he sits down with Americana music icon Webb Wilder during Americana Fest in Nashville, 2025. In this engaging episode, Webb opens up about his extensive career, reflections on aging, his journey with sobriety, and the importance of gratitude. They also delve into his latest album, 'Hillbilly Speedball,' and discuss the industry's changing landscape. Tune in for an inspiring and insightful conversation with one of Nashville's enduring music legends.

00:00 Reflecting on Life and Mortality

01:10 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast

02:46 Interview with Webb Wilder Begins

03:04 Americana Fest and Career Highlights

06:01 WMOT Roots Radio and The List Show

07:52 Public Media Challenges

08:46 New Music and Personal Reflections

16:30 Farewell With Four: Songs for the Final Goodbye

20:28 Southern Roots and Elvis Influence

20:45 Early Movie Experiences and Musical Inspirations

21:56 Tom Petty and Rock 'n' Roll Spirituality

23:51 The Persona of Webb Wilder

26:15 Sobriety and Personal Growth

28:57 Reflections on Relationships and Love

32:16 Hillbilly Speedball and Musical Journey

37:57 Curiosity and Life Reflections

Creative Balance: Navigating Music, Marriage, and Independent Success with South for Winter | Curious Goldfish PodcastJoin Jason English on the Curious Goldfish Podcast as he sits down with Dani and Nick of the band South for Winter. The married duo shares their journey of balancing a thriving music career, marriage, and independent success. In this candid conversation, they discuss the challenges of scheduling creativity, their genre-defying sound, and thoughts on the impact of AI on the music industry. The episode also delves into their future plans, including potentially relocating to New Zealand and the contemplation of starting a family. Don't miss live performances of 'This Man Will Be the Death of Me' and 'All I Want to Do' by South for Winter.

00:00 Introduction and Creative Struggles

00:54 Welcome to Curious Goldfish

01:37 Meet Dani and Nick of South for Winter

01:55 Managing Marriage and Music

02:09 Discussing Their Unique Sound

02:21 Thoughts on AI and Future Plans

02:50 Starting the Interview

03:15 Balancing Personal and Professional Life

04:39 The Evolution of Their Music

11:51 The Band's Dynamic and Changes

12:33 Exploring Musical Influences

14:35 Creative Process and Future Projects

19:03 AI in the Music Industry

19:59 The Impact of AI on Music

20:59 Roots Music and AI Limitations

21:42 Concerns About AI in Music and Film

23:03 The Journey of an Independent Band

27:02 Balancing Touring and Personal Life

27:47 Future Aspirations and Challenges

36:36 Live Performance: This Man Will Be The Death of Me

39:46 Live Performance: All I Want to Do

An Unfiltered Conversation with Cyrena Wages | Curious Goldfish PodcastIn this episode of Curious Goldfish, host Jason English reconnects with singer-songwriter Cyrena Wages, the pride of Memphis, Tennessee. They discuss Cyrena's journey in the music industry, her evolving confidence, and her latest news, including an upcoming album and her engagement. Cyrena shares her experiences of overcoming challenges, her deep connection to both Nashville and Memphis, and the personal growth that has shaped her music career. Tune in for an in-depth look at the life and artistry of Cyrena Wages, filled with heartfelt moments and inspiring insights.

00:00 Introduction and Self-Confidence

00:42 Welcome to Curious Goldfish

01:24 Reintroducing Cyrena Wages

01:54 Cyrena's Journey and Growth

02:19 New Album and Engagement

02:42 First Interview Reflection

01:28 Starting the Conversation

06:59 Memphis and Nashville Connection

11:51 Vanity Project and Feedback

17:54 New Album Announcement

18:10 The Meaning Behind 'Miss Melancholia'

18:27 Creative Process and Collaborations

20:23 Future Plans and Singles Release

23:16 Personal Life and Engagement

24:17 Reflections on Relationships and Personal Growth

29:31 Curiosity and Human Experience

31:45 Podcast Host's Curiosity and Conclusion

🎙️ Welcome to Curious Goldfish!Curious Goldfish is a podcast community where music and curiosity come together through meaningful conversations with the music makers of our world. It’s a music podcast about more than music, inspired by Ted Lasso. Hosted by Jason English, each episode dives into the stories, struggles, and inspirations behind some of the most captivating voices in Americana, rock, folk, country, and bluegrass.Whether it’s Grammy winners, rising stars, or undiscovered gems, we explore the creative journey, personal transformation, and the impact of place and purpose on art.

Chasing Greatness with Matt Rogers: Songwriting, Veteran Advocacy, and LoveIn this heartfelt episode of Curious Goldfish, host Jason English sits down with talented songwriter Matt Rogers. They dive deep into the art of songwriting and discuss the inspirations behind some of Matt's compelling tracks such as 'Camouflage,' which addresses the hidden epidemic of veteran suicide, 'You Are My Hallelujah,' and 'White Trash Royalty.' Matt shares his journey from working in the medical field to pursuing music in Nashville, his personal life, and his upcoming marriage. They discuss the challenges of dating in the music industry and how his fiancée Megan has been a rock in his life. Listen to Matt perform 'Camouflage' and get a glimpse into the world of a dedicated artist chasing greatness by staying true to himself. ( @mattrogerscountry )

00:00 Introduction and Philosophy of Songwriting

00:58 Welcome to Curious Goldfish

01:36 Meet Matt Rogers

03:00 Matt's Journey to Nashville

04:11 The Songwriting Process

05:15 Deep Topics in Country Music

06:40 Life in Georgia and Musical Influences

08:10 The Therapeutic Power of Songwriting

12:06 The Story Behind 'Camouflage'

14:47 Exploring Matt's Other Songs

19:33 Exploring Songwriting Inspirations

20:44 Target Audience and Songwriting Approach

22:00 Challenges and Realities of the Music Industry

24:54 The Magic of Live Performances

27:37 Personal Life and Engagement Story

31:46 Curiosity and Future Aspirations

33:15 Musical Performance: 'Camouflage'

🎙️ Welcome to Curious Goldfish!Curious Goldfish is a podcast community where music and curiosity come together through meaningful conversations with the music makers of our world. It’s a music podcast about more than music, inspired by Ted Lasso. Hosted by Jason English, each episode dives into the stories, struggles, and inspirations behind some of the most captivating voices in Americana, rock, folk, country, and bluegrass.

Curious Goldfish with Jason English: A Conversation with Gina VenierIn this episode of Curious Goldfish, host Jason English chats with singer-songwriter Gina Venier. They discuss her journey from Midwest roots to Nashville, her love for baseball, and her memorable national anthem performance at Wrigley Field. Gina opens up about her American Idol experience, the challenges of being true to oneself, and her philosophy on learning and growth. The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity, curiosity, and community in both life and music. Stick around to hear Gina perform her emotional and personal song, 'Nora Jane.'

00:00 Embracing Growth and Learning

00:55 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast

01:38 Meet Gina Venier: A Musical Journey

04:11 Gina's Love for Baseball

05:46 Performing the National Anthem at Wrigley Field

12:13 The Power of Connections

19:46 Midwestern Roots and Family Values

22:38 Navigating Identity and Faith

27:40 Reflecting on American Idol Experience

36:23 Reflecting on the American Idol Experience

37:35 The Pressure to Exploit Personal Stories

40:23 Navigating the Music Industry

45:18 The Importance of Authentic Connections

49:29 Curiosity and Growth in Life and Music

52:51 The Power of Live Music and Personal Connections

55:28 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

01:09:39 Performing 'Nora Jane' Live

🎙️ Welcome to Curious Goldfish!Curious Goldfish is a podcast community where music and curiosity come together through meaningful conversations with the music makers of our world. It’s a music podcast about more than music, inspired by Ted Lasso. Hosted by Jason English, each episode dives into the stories, struggles, and inspirations behind some of the most captivating voices in Americana, rock, folk, country, and bluegrass. Whether it’s Grammy winners, rising stars, or undiscovered gems, we explore the creative journey, personal transformation, and the impact of place and purpose on art.