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Michael Isaak on Arabesque Folk, Diaspora Identity, and The Carpet Maker
Host Becky Boyland interviews Los Angeles–born Egyptian American musician Michael Isaak about his journey from church hymns, Arabic classics, and early FL Studio production to creating a new sound he calls “arabesque folk.” After making indie folk influenced by Phoebe Bridgers and Sufjan Stevens, a first trip to Egypt at 19 sparked deeper cultural immersion; he brought home an oud, later transferred to Columbia University, studied Arabic language and Arab music history and theory, and joined the Arab Music Ensemble. Michael shares how experimenting and jamming helped Arabic motifs emerge naturally instead of feeling forced, his critique of the “world music” framing, and his goal of building in-person community through intimate shows. They discuss his debut album The Carpet Maker (May 15) and lead single “Hold Your Keys” (March 6), reflecting on diaspora, displacement, and the hope of return.
https://youtu.be/YiRyILUz2Jc
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Stream all the released music from Second Verse any time! Add the official Songs from the Second Verse Podcast playlist to your Spotify now! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5lPUAY9uBYVVg9fmy03Bj3?si=5211c2db80334285
Or to your Tidal now!
https://tidal.com/playlist/c84934ad-2723-4d1a-919e-2aebd4b4974d
Starting your own podcast? Sign up with Captivate to host your show today! https://fas.st/t/ZHbLxEpe (affiliate link)
Prin’s Second Verse: From 9/11 Hospitalization to Wellness-Centered Music Production
Host Becky Boyland interviews New Jersey-based music producer, author, and educator Prin, who began playing piano by ear at age three, worked as a paid musician by 15, and built a thriving NYC gigging and composing life while at Fordham. After graduating in 2001, untreated bipolar disorder and substance abuse led her into a free inpatient case-study program at the New York State Psychiatric Institute, where she was hospitalized on 9/11, prompting a renewed commitment to mental health. A back injury halted performing for years, shifting her into counseling, education, and writing. After leaving higher ed, she was hit by a car and suffered lasting left-hand nerve damage, later returning to gigs and releasing her first album in 2016. Subsequent car accidents, disc replacement surgery (2019), the pandemic, and her brother’s death after COVID led her into music production, sound healing, and an ambient grief project, “The Calm Principles.”
https://youtu.be/OPJ9_mkKL1g
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Stream all the released music from Second Verse any time! Add the official Songs from the Second Verse Podcast playlist to your Spotify now! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5lPUAY9uBYVVg9fmy03Bj3?si=5211c2db80334285
Or to your Tidal now!
https://tidal.com/playlist/c84934ad-2723-4d1a-919e-2aebd4b4974d
Starting your own podcast? Sign up with Captivate to host your show today! https://fas.st/t/ZHbLxEpe (affiliate link)
Embracing Multiple Selves: A Journey into Music with Sophie Bickerdike
In this episode of Second Verse, host Becky Boyland welcomes Sophie Bickerdike, an indie artist who shares her journey of exploring multiple musical identities under different names. Sophie talks about how she started creating music out of necessity during COVID for her yoga studio and evolved into producing meditative tracks, healing frequencies, and experimental sounds. She discusses the challenges of coming to music later in life, the joy of playful experimentation, and the power of finishing small projects. Sophie's story is an inspiring reminder that it's never too late to start a new creative journey.
https://youtu.be/Qze1Cxw-jNY
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Stream all the released music from Second Verse any time! Add the official Songs from the Second Verse Podcast playlist to your Spotify now!
Or to your Tidal now!
Starting your own podcast? Sign up with Captivate to host your show today! https://fas.st/t/ZHbLxEpe (affiliate link)
Embracing Creative Renewal: Adriana Douglas' Journey from Corporate to Artistry
In this episode of Second Verse, host Becky Boyland welcomes music artist and creative guide Adriana Douglas, who shares her inspiring journey from a decade-long corporate career to rediscovering her childhood dream of becoming a singer. Adriana discusses the pivotal moment when she embraced her artistic identity, the impact of Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way in unlocking her creativity, and her recent move to Nashville to immerse herself in a vibrant artistic community. Along with practical advice on navigating the music industry, Adriana emphasizes the importance of aligning career choices with personal values, the necessity of community support, and the resilience required to pursue artistic dreams. Listen in for an honest, energizing conversation about the challenges and triumphs of reclaiming one's creative passion.
https://youtu.be/CNM4a7gvBBg
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Stream all the released music from Second Verse any time! Add the official Songs from the Second Verse Podcast playlist to your Spotify now! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5lPUAY9uBYVVg9fmy03Bj3?si=5211c2db80334285
Or to your Tidal now! https://tidal.com/playlist/c84934ad-2723-4d1a-919e-2aebd4b4974d
Starting your own podcast? Sign up with Captivate to host your show today! https://fas.st/t/ZHbLxEpe (affiliate link)
Rediscovering Purpose Through Music with Kathi Fran
In this episode of Second Verse hosted by Becky Boyland, we meet Kathi Copans, who creates under the artist name Kathi Fran. Kathi shares her inspiring journey of growing up in a musical home, navigating the ups and downs of life, and finding her way back to music and songwriting after illness and loss. This conversation covers a range of topics including the evolving definition of success, the healing power of music, and the importance of kindness in the creative community. Becky and Kathi also discuss the challenges and rewards of co-writing, the importance of authenticity in art, and how even small steps in pursuing one's passion can lead to significant personal fulfillment and impact. Tune in for an episode full of wisdom, resilience, and musical inspiration.
https://youtu.be/EJrlJslaNro
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Stream all the released music from Second Verse any time!
Starting your own podcast? Sign up with Captivate to host your show today! https://fas.st/t/ZHbLxEpe (affiliate link)
Joshua David Thayer: From Sideman to Solo Artist
In this episode of Second Verse, host Becky Boyland chats with Joshua David Thayer, a seasoned bassist from Northampton, Massachusetts. After spending decades in supporting roles for various bands, the sudden loss of his father in 2023 inspired Josh to step into the spotlight as a solo artist at age 50. They discuss the creative process, using grief as a catalyst, and the importance of finishing projects over striving for perfection. Josh's journey is a testament to trusting the process and letting the material guide you to create honest and impactful work. Listen in as Josh shares his unique approach to music creation and the challenges of being an independent artist in 2025.
https://youtu.be/1CMNvWBdM9s
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Stream all the released music from Second Verse any time!
Starting your own podcast? Sign up with Captivate to host your show today! https://fas.st/t/ZHbLxEpe (affiliate link)
Building Confidence Through Small Steps: Insights from Second Verse Podcast
In this episode of Second Verse, host Becky Boyland emphasizes the importance of building confidence through small steps. She shares personal experiences, including a transformative songwriting retreat in Scotland. Becky highlights how taking minor actions can snowball into greater self-assurance. Featuring stories from past guests like Ben Kintisch, Kelly Hastings, Greig Watts, and Chris Evans, she illustrates how simple, consistent efforts can lead to significant progress in music careers. Becky also addresses common confidence busters, such as comparison and perfectionism, and provides practical micro habits for artists. Download her 'Creative Momentum Map' to help boost your creative journey.
https://youtu.be/YwuJLT61-zg
Download the Creative Momentum Map: 7 Small Actions to Reignite Your Music:
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Starting your own podcast? Sign up with Captivate to host your show today! https://fas.st/t/ZHbLxEpe (affiliate link)
The Power of Collaboration for Indie Artists
In this episode of Second Verse, host Becky Boyland explores the transformative power of collaboration for indie musicians. She breaks down why working together is crucial, not just in co-writing or production, but also in building community and maintaining accountability. Becky shares her own experiences and provides a step-by-step guide on how to find and foster successful creative partnerships. The episode concludes with her top six benefits of collaborating, emphasizing the importance of community and shared growth in achieving musical success. Tune in to hear inspiring stories and get practical tips to enhance your music journey.
https://youtu.be/6t-Pftkfo6w
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Starting your own podcast? Sign up with Captivate to host your show today! https://fas.st/t/ZHbLxEpe (affiliate link
Building Your Creative Ecosystem: Nurturing Sustainable Artistry for Indie Musicians
In this episode of Second Verse, hosted by Becky Boyland, indie music artists are guided on how to create and nurture a creative ecosystem that supports sustainable artistry. Sponsored by Attitude Creativity, the episode covers the importance of establishing an effective website and brand messaging. Becky emphasizes moving from clarity about one's artistic message to building a supportive environment that fosters growth. Key components include creative spaces, people, systems, and sustainability. Listeners are encouraged to develop intentional creative zones, build supportive circles, utilize structured systems, and prioritize rest in their creative journeys.
https://youtu.be/1ja7IxIw9hU
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Starting your own podcast? Sign up with Captivate to host your show today! https://fas.st/t/ZHbLxEpe (affiliate link
Clarify Your Message as an Indie Artist: Practical Steps for Success
This episode of Second Verse, sponsored by Attitude Creativity, delves into the importance of clarity for indie music artists. The host discusses how having a clear message can help artists stand out and connect with their audience, emphasizing the need for consistent brand messaging across their website and social platforms. She offers three practical steps to craft a clear message: defining a one-liner that captures the essence of their music, testing it with friends for authenticity, and consistently applying it across all platforms. The episode concludes with the host's encouraging song, “Running on Empty,” which celebrates those who support us in our lives.
https://youtu.be/g0LtDFLgEbc
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Starting your own podcast? Sign up with Captivate to host your show today! https://fas.st/t/ZHbLxEpe (affiliate link)
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