heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 37 // KentuckySummary

On this episode of the heartdea13r podcast, Canadian singer-songwriter Kentucky shares his profound journey through music, personal struggles, and recovery from addiction. He discusses the significance of his persona, the impact of family dynamics, and the healing power of music. Kentucky reflects on his early musical influences, the challenges faced in the music industry, and the pivotal moments that led him to seek help. Through candid storytelling, he emphasizes the importance of self-love, supportive relationships, and the transformative nature of creativity. This conversation serves as a testament to resilience and the potential for personal growth through art.

Takeaways

- Kentucky's persona represents a journey of self-discovery.

- Music can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.

- Family dynamics can deeply influence personal identity and choices.

- Experiencing trauma can shape one's perspective on life.

- The music industry is filled with challenges and opportunities.

- Hitting rock bottom can lead to profound personal transformation.

- Seeking help is a crucial step in recovery.

- Building supportive relationships can aid in healing.

- Creativity can flourish when one embraces one's true self.

- Self-love is essential for personal growth and happiness.

heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 36 // The Bloody BeetrootsSummaryIn this episode of the heartdea13r podcast, host chr1stoph3r g0nda interviews Sir Bob Cornelius Riffo, known as The Bloody Beetroots. They discuss his journey from classical music to punk and electronic, the importance of fitness and nutrition in his life, and how he channels his emotions into his music. The conversation touches on collaboration in the music industry, the balance between chaos and control in his creative process, and the significance of silence and self-reflection. The episode concludes with insights into authenticity in music and the distinction between the art and the business.Takeaways- People romanticize chaos, especially in performance.

- Off stage, chaos can be destructive.

- The speaker grew up with a deep-seated anger.

- Music became a way to contain and express this anger.

- Chaos in music is a reflection of internal struggles.

- The energy in their music is a computation of chaos.

- Songs like 'Killing Punk' are products of this energy.

- Art can be a therapeutic outlet for personal turmoil.

- Understanding chaos is essential for creative expression.

- The duality of chaos influences both life and art.

heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 35 // Kay MacauleySummary

In this conversation, Kay Macauley, Manager, Golden Robot Records, discusses the intrinsic motivations behind creating music, emphasizing that true artistry should stem from passion rather than financial gain. She highlights the harsh realities of the music industry, where only a small percentage of artists achieve commercial success, and advocates for a redefinition of what it means to be a ‘rockstar’—suggesting that it should be about personal fulfillment and enjoyment rather than monetary success.Takeaways

- The beauty in the music industry is not about making money.

- Pursuing music as a career can lead to disillusionment.

- A small percentage of artists achieve financial success.

- True artistry comes from passion and creativity.

- Being a rockstar should mean doing what you love.

- Music should be about enjoyment, not just profit.

- Financial success in music is rare and not guaranteed.

- Artists should focus on their love for music.

- The music industry is challenging and competitive.

- Redefining success can lead to greater fulfillment.

heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 34 // Tommy DorfmanSummary

This heartdea13r Podcast episode features Tommy Dorfman, club promoter and CEO & Founder of Juice Entertainment & RD Enterprises, chatting at length about his current lawsuit against Live Nation. The conversation delves into the issues surrounding the music industry, particularly focusing on the alleged criminal conspiracies within major concert promotion companies. It highlights the need for fairness in ticket pricing and support for independent promoters and artists. The discussion emphasizes the importance of community involvement in advocating for change.

Takeaways

- There are significant issues of criminal conspiracy in the music industry.

- Support from multiple administrations indicates a widespread concern.

- Fairness in concert pricing is crucial for fans and promoters alike.

- Independent promoters face challenges from larger companies like Live Nation.

- Artists are being developed and destroyed by current industry practices.

- Community support is essential for advocating change in the music scene.

- Lower ticket prices are a common demand among concert-goers.

- Legal actions are being taken to address these industry issues.

- The importance of showing up and voicing support for fair practices.

- The conversation highlights the need for a collective effort to improve the music industry.

heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 33 // Stacey Dee

Summary

In this episode of the heartdea13r Podcast, Bad Cop Bad Cop guitarist and vocalist, Stacey Dee, shares her journey through punk rock music, addiction, and recovery. She discusses her family background in music, the struggles she faced with addiction, and how she found purpose through songwriting. Stacey emphasizes the importance of community support in her recovery and her mission to help others through the Sidewalk Project. The conversation touches on themes of personal growth, spirituality, and the power of positivity in overcoming life's challenges.Takeaways

- Stacey Dee has been involved in punk music for over 25 years.

- Her family background in music greatly influenced her career.

- She struggled with addiction but found purpose through music.

- Stacey emphasizes the importance of community support in recovery.

- Her new album reflects a positive shift in her life and music.

- She experienced a spiritual awakening during her recovery process.

- Stacey co-founded the Sidewalk Project to help marginalized women.

- Consistency in community is key to helping others in need.

- She believes in focusing on the positive aspects of life.

- Stacey encourages gratitude and connection with the universe.

heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 32 // Margarita MonetSummary

In this episode of the heartdea13r podcast, host chr1stoph3r g0nda interviews Margarita Monet, the lead singer of Edge of Paradise. They discuss Margarita's artistic journey from her early influences in Armenia and Moscow to her current role in the music industry. The conversation delves into overcoming shyness, the importance of confidence, and the role of fear and love in pursuing one's passions. Margarita shares insights on navigating the music business, finding the right team, and balancing independence with label support. The discussion also touches on spirituality, philosophy, and the continuous growth of an artist.Takeaways

- Margarita's artistic name was inspired by her love for art.

- Her early exposure to the arts was unforced and immersive.

- Confidence is crucial for singers, especially when hitting high notes.

- Failures are essential for growth in the music industry.

- Surrounding yourself with the right people is vital for success.

- Understanding the business side of music is crucial for artists.

- Creativity should be a constant pursuit, even during busy times.

- Fear can hinder progress, but love can drive it forward.

- Music serves as a universal language that connects people.

- Maintaining a curious mind is essential for personal and artistic growth.

heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 31 // Lauri Ylönen

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Lauri Ylönen, co-founder and frontman for the Finnish rock band The Rasmus, shares his journey back to Finland after years in the U.S., exploring the duality of his personality that fuels his creativity. He discusses the therapeutic nature of songwriting, the challenges of balancing family life with a music career, and the importance of staying true to oneself in the music industry. Lauri emphasizes the significance of experiences over material wealth and reflects on the beauty of nature in Finland as a source of inspiration. He offers valuable advice for aspiring artists, highlighting the need for authenticity and passion in their craft.

Takeaways

- Lauri finds balance between his dark and funny sides.

- Creativity often stems from exploring darker themes.

- Music serves as a therapeutic outlet for Lauri.

- He prefers to express his feelings through songwriting rather than therapy.

- Lauri's stubbornness has been crucial for his career success.

- Balancing family life with a music career is challenging but rewarding.

- He emphasizes the importance of being present for his children.

- Legacy is about creating memories, not just material wealth.

- Nature in Finland inspires Lauri's creativity and well-being.

- Physical fitness is essential for Lauri's performance and mental health.

heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 30 // Ben Wright

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Ben Wright, founder of Henhouse Prowlers and Bluegrass Ambassadors, shares his journey from a spontaneous banjo purchase to becoming a cultural ambassador through music. He discusses the importance of vulnerability, connection, and the evolution of bluegrass music, while also addressing the balance between touring and personal life. The conversation highlights the power of music as a tool for cultural diplomacy and the mission of Bluegrass Ambassadors to connect communities through shared musical experiences.

Takeaways

- Ben Wright's journey into music began with a spontaneous banjo purchase.

- His experiences in West Africa shaped his worldview and desire to create.

- Music serves as a powerful tool for cultural diplomacy and connection.

- The importance of vulnerability and support within a band dynamic.

- Balancing touring life with family and personal commitments is crucial.

- Success in music doesn't solely depend on touring; there are many paths.

- Bluegrass music can convey deep emotional stories despite its upbeat sound.

- The evolution of bluegrass allows for modern influences and themes.

- Creating original music is essential for the band's identity and legacy.

- The Bluegrass Ambassadors charity aims to connect cultures through music.

heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 29 // Randy Bradbury & Cameron Webb

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Randy Bradbury and Cameron Webb discuss their experiences in the music industry, focusing on the importance of genuine relationships, mental health, and creativity. They share insights on the punk rock community, the creative process behind their new project 84 Days, and the significance of setting boundaries in balancing personal and professional lives. The discussion also touches on misconceptions about roles in music and the magic that can happen spontaneously during the creative process.

Takeaways

- Building genuine relationships in the music industry is essential.

- The punk rock community values authenticity and support.

- Mental health is a priority for artists in the music scene.

- Creativity often comes from a place of spontaneity and collaboration.

- Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining personal and professional balance.

- The journey of creating music can be as important as the final product.

- Up-and-coming musicians should focus on passion over fame.

- The Punk Rock Museum serves as a vital representation of the scene's history.

- Misconceptions about roles in music can undermine their importance.

- The magic of music often happens unexpectedly.

heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 28 // Bruce Smith

Bruce Neal Smith is an American musician best known as the drummer for the post-punk band The Pop Group. He has also been a member of The Slits and the New Age Steppers and performed with Public Image Ltd from 1986 to 1992, and then from 2009 to 2025. He was raised and educated in Bristol, England and is also the drummer for the supergroup Ashes and Diamonds, alongside Daniel Ash (from Bauhaus/Love and Rockets) and Paul Denman (from Sade). The band's debut album, ‘Ashes and Diamonds Are Forever,’ is out on October 31st, 2025.

Summary

In this episode of the Heart Dealer podcast, Bruce Neil Smith shares his extensive musical journey, reflecting on his upbringing in a creative family, the impact of his father's artistic legacy, and the evolution of his career as a drummer. He discusses the importance of collaboration, the challenges of the modern music landscape, and the lessons learned from personal struggles, including overcoming addiction. Bruce emphasizes the significance of authenticity in art and the need for artists to embrace their true selves in order to connect with their audience.

Takeaways

- Bruce Neil Smith's musical journey began in his teenage years in Bristol.

- Growing up in a creative family influenced Bruce's artistic path.

- The importance of collaboration in the music industry cannot be overstated.

- Creativity often requires the courage to edit and let go of ideas.

- Modern technology has changed how music is created and shared.

- Authenticity in art is crucial for connecting with audiences.

- Life experiences shape an artist's perspective and creativity.

- Overcoming personal struggles can lead to greater artistic expression.

- The time taken to create art is less important than the quality of the work.

- Artists should be open to receiving inspiration from various sources.